Memphis woke up Monday to air you can practically drink, with a muggy, clear start around 77°F and sticky at Memphis International Airport as of 5:35 a.m. CDT on June 29, 2026. That soupy sunrise is just the opening act for a multi‑day heat wave that will drive daytime highs into the mid‑to‑upper 90s and make it feel more like 105–113°F during the hottest hours.
The National Weather Service has expanded a Heat Advisory for the Mid‑South through 6:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, July 1, 2026, and issued an Extreme Heat Watch from Wednesday morning through Thursday evening, July 2, 2026, warning of dangerously high heat‑index values, according to NWS Memphis. Forecasters expect highs to reach about 96°F on Monday and climb into the upper 90s Tuesday and Wednesday, with some of the worst conditions in low‑lying and Delta areas. Officials are urging residents to limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and check on vulnerable neighbors.
When It Will Be Hottest
The most oppressive heat will hit from early to late afternoon each day. Monday’s forecast calls for a high near 96°F with heat‑index readings around 109°F. Tuesday is expected to top out near 98°F with a heat‑index near 110°F, and Wednesday could reach about 99°F with heat‑index values in some spots pushing 110–113°F. Overnight lows will only drop into the mid‑to‑upper 70s, so the city will get little relief after sunset.
Cooling Options And Safety
For those who need a place to cool down, local partners have opened options for relief. A downtown cooling center at the Hospitality Hub (590 Washington Avenue) is offering afternoon hours, and MATA can provide transport on request at 901‑486‑0939, according to Action News 5. People without reliable air conditioning, older adults, young children and pets are urged to stay indoors during the peak heat and to check in on family, friends and neighbors who might struggle in these conditions.
If you have to be outside, take frequent water breaks, shift heavy work to early morning or late evening, and head for air‑conditioned shelter at the first sign of heat illness. For official updates and any changes to advisories, follow the National Weather Service in Memphis.
