Tuscaloosa, Alabama – Blistering summer heat will grip central and northwest Alabama Thursday, pushing heat index values up to 107 degrees and prompting urgent warnings for families in Tuscaloosa, Pickens, Jasper, and surrounding areas. Residents are urged to take precautions as dangerous heat and humidity settle over the region until 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, a Heat Advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. through 9 p.m. Thursday for Pickens, Tuscaloosa, Marion, Lamar, Fayette, Winston, and Walker counties. Temperatures combined with high humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses, particularly for those without access to air conditioning.
Carrollton, Jasper, Sulligent, and Double Springs will see the highest risk, with major roads like U.S. Highway 43 and Alabama Highway 69 impacted by possible heat-related vehicle breakdowns and increased emergency calls. Local schools, outdoor workers, and vulnerable populations—including the elderly and young children—should avoid prolonged time outdoors.
Health officials recommend drinking extra fluids, staying in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and checking on neighbors and pets frequently. Never leave children or animals in parked vehicles. Outdoor workers should take frequent breaks and know the signs of heat stroke—call 911 immediately if someone is overcome by heat.
Thursday’s extreme heat follows a string of high-temperature advisories across Alabama this July. More advisories are possible if heat persists into the weekend.
