The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued an ongoing Extreme Heat Warning for portions of East Arkansas, North Mississippi, Southeast Missouri, and West Tennessee. This warning is set to last until 6 a.m. CDT Thursday, as the region braces for sweltering temperatures and oppressive humidity. With heat index values potentially soaring as high as 115 degrees, the risks for heat-related illnesses are ramping up.
Residents and visitors in the affected areas, including Memphis, Jonesboro, and West Memphis, are advised to follow safety guidelines due to ongoing extreme heat. Recommendations from the NWS include drinking fluids, staying in air-conditioned environments, avoiding sun exposure, and checking on relatives and neighbors. Forecasts indicate continued hot and sunny conditions, with temperatures near 100 degrees today and heat index values reaching up to 116.
The intense heat is expected to persist into the night, with temperatures remaining high and lows around 79 degrees. Public health officials continue to issue warnings, advising limited outdoor activity and increased awareness of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and dehydration, which can develop quickly in these conditions. Wednesday is forecast to bring only a slight, 20 percent chance of showers, with temperatures likely reaching near 98 degrees.
Later in the week, the weather may offer some relief, with the potential for showers and thunderstorms from Thursday into Friday. While these conditions could temporarily ease the heat, they also carry the risk of becoming severe and should be approached with caution. The NWS Memphis forecast notes "a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm" on Thursday, while Friday brings a reduced chance of rain at 30 percent. Temperatures are expected to decline slightly by the weekend, with highs reaching the upper 80s.
