Memphis is waking up warm, sticky, and already uncomfortable, with temperatures around 81°F at Memphis International, dew points near 75°F, and humidity above 80 percent. On top of that soupy start, the city is under a Heat Advisory from 10 a.m. Monday, July 20, 2026, through 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Highs will climb into the mid 90s both afternoons, and the heat index will push it into the danger zone, especially in exposed neighborhoods. If you have to be outside, slow it down, drink plenty of water, and check in on older neighbors and pets.
Heat Advisory Locked In Through Tuesday Night
According to NWS Memphis, the Heat Advisory runs from 10 a.m. Monday, July 20, through 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2026. Forecasters expect heat index values above 105°F across much of the Mid South, with some spots feeling as hot as about 111°F today and up to 114°F on Tuesday as afternoon highs reach the upper 90s. Overnight lows will only slip into the upper 70s, which means little relief once the sun goes down.
Afternoon Hours Bring Peak Sizzle
The worst of the heat is expected in the afternoons, roughly from noon to 6 p.m. Temperatures should hit the mid 90s by early afternoon and peak later in the day. Winds today and Tuesday will be very light, around 0 to 5 mph, so do not count on a helpful breeze to take the edge off the humidity. If you can, move heavy outdoor work to the early morning or later in the evening.
Spotty Storms, Low-End Severe Risk Tuesday Night
There is a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday evening into the night, mainly between about 7 p.m. and 1 a.m., with around a 20 percent chance of rain in most neighborhoods. The local forecast discussion highlights a marginal, low-end severe weather risk for parts of West Tennessee Tuesday night. Any storms that do fire up could bring damaging wind and large hail. They should move through quickly but could briefly tangle with the evening commute.
Cooling Centers And Backup Plans
City and nonprofit groups have been opening cooling options during recent extreme heat. The Hospitality Hub at 590 Washington Avenue has been operating as a public cooling center with transportation available through MATA, according to Action News 5. Call ahead to confirm current hours and contact MATA at 901-486-0939 about rides before you head out. If you lose power, get to a public cooling site or another air-conditioned location as soon as you can.
Heat Safety Quick Hits
Hydrate early and often, avoid long stretches of outdoor activity between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., and never leave children or pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes. Employers and outdoor crews should push the heaviest work to early morning or late evening and build in frequent shade and water breaks. If you or someone nearby shows signs of heat stroke such as confusion, fainting, or a very high body temperature, call 911 immediately.
