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Mississippi Fall Begins With 105-Degree Heat Index
Jackson, Mississippi – Fall begins Tuesday with heat index values near 105 degrees and isolated severe storms capable of damaging winds from 3 to 8 p.m.
By Tessa Morgan · 2026-09-22T08:54:39.122Z
Jackson, Mississippi – Fall begins Tuesday with heat index values near 105 degrees and isolated severe storms capable of damaging winds from 3 to 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, temperatures will climb into the 90s Tuesday, creating a limited Level 1 heat stress threat across much of Mississippi and portions of neighboring Louisiana and Arkansas.
Peak heat index values could reach about 105 degrees. Prolonged outdoor activity could lead to fatigue or heat exhaustion, making hydration and breaks from the heat important during the afternoon.
The Weather Service advises residents to recognize signs of heat illness, drink plenty of fluids and never leave people or pets inside vehicles.
A separate weather threat develops during the afternoon and evening. The Weather Service identifies a marginal, Level 1 severe weather risk across portions of central and eastern Mississippi, including the Jackson, Meridian, Philadelphia and Columbus areas.
Isolated severe thunderstorms could produce damaging wind gusts between 3 and 8 p.m. The threat area includes portions of the Interstate 20 and Interstate 59 corridors, potentially affecting the evening commute where storms develop.
Residents should have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and check conditions before afternoon and evening travel or outdoor activities. The Weather Service information provided does not indicate that severe storms will affect every community within the risk area.
The combination of summerlike heat and thunderstorms creates an unusual feel for the first day of astronomical fall. Heat remains the daytime concern before the window for isolated severe weather opens at 3 p.m. and continues through 8 p.m.