Memphis, Tenn. – Dangerous heat will grip the Mid-South through Tuesday, with heat index values climbing well above 105 degrees and some Delta communities expected to experience apparent temperatures exceeding 110 degrees during the afternoon and early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, an Extreme Heat Warning and Heat Advisory will take effect from 10 a.m. Monday through 9 p.m. Tuesday. The Extreme Heat Warning covers portions of the Delta, where heat index values are forecast to exceed 110 degrees, while the remainder of the Mid-South will be under a Heat Advisory for heat index values above 105 degrees.
Communities including Memphis, Jonesboro, Blytheville, Dyersburg, Jackson, Tupelo, Oxford, Corinth and Union City will endure dangerous heat, while the highest heat index values are expected in Delta locations such as Clarksdale, Forrest City and surrounding areas. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, particularly for outdoor workers, older adults and those without reliable air conditioning.
Residents should avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, drink water frequently and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, check on neighbors and relatives who may be vulnerable to the heat and never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.
The dangerous heat is expected to persist through Tuesday evening before conditions gradually improve. Additional heat-related alerts could be issued if the prolonged heat wave continues across the Mid-South.
