Memphis, Tenn. – A sweltering heat wave continues to grip the Mid-South with heat index values climbing as high as 111° across Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Missouri through 8 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, the Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect across dozens of counties including Shelby, Fayette, DeSoto, Crittenden, and Craighead. Officials warn that the combination of high humidity and soaring temperatures could rapidly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Urban areas like Memphis, Jonesboro, and Southaven are especially vulnerable due to limited overnight cooling and elevated “heat island” effects. Major highways such as I-40, I-55, and U.S. 61 could see increased incidents of vehicle breakdowns due to overheating. Outdoor workers, elderly residents, and children face the greatest risk.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity, hydrate frequently, and check on neighbors without air conditioning. If you need shelter from the heat, call 211 for cooling center locations.
This is one of the most dangerous heat events of the summer so far, and additional advisories may be issued if conditions persist into Friday.
