Jackson, Mississippi – Dangerous heat is building across Mississippi this weekend, with heat index values climbing above 100 degrees and creating an increasing risk of heat-related illnesses. Conditions will become even more oppressive Sunday, particularly across western Mississippi, before even hotter weather settles in early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, most of the state will experience Limited (Level 1) heat stress Saturday, with afternoon temperatures reaching the mid-90s and heat index values approaching 105 degrees. By Sunday, portions of western and southwest Mississippi, including areas near the Mississippi River, will move into an Elevated (Level 2) heat stress category, where heat index values between 105 and 110 degrees are expected.
Communities including Jackson, Vicksburg, Natchez, Brookhaven, Greenville, Greenwood, Yazoo City, Hattiesburg, Meridian, Philadelphia, and Columbus should prepare for increasingly dangerous afternoon conditions. The greatest heat stress Sunday is expected west of Interstate 55, where prolonged outdoor activity could quickly lead to heat exhaustion.
Residents are urged to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon. Officials also remind residents to recognize the signs of heat illness and never leave children, older adults, or pets inside parked vehicles.
Forecasters warn that heat impacts will worsen early next week, with additional heat advisories or other heat-related alerts possible as temperatures and humidity continue to rise across central and western Mississippi.
