Memphis woke up to a wall of muggy air Thursday, with clear skies and temperatures around 75°F at Memphis International and humidity you could practically feel in your lungs. The heat is only climbing from here, with highs near 97°F and heat index values expected to hit 110 to 113°F this afternoon, making outdoor activity dangerous during the midday and evening hours.
What To Expect Thursday
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning from noon to 8:00 PM CDT Thursday and a Heat Advisory that extends through Saturday evening, with forecasters warning that heat index readings may top 110°F. Residents are urged to stay in air-conditioned spaces, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid prolonged outdoor exertion, according to the National Weather Service Memphis.
Afternoon Storms Could Offer Short Relief
A slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms after noon could bring brief heavy rain and a quick burst of cooler air, but coverage will be spotty and is not expected to ease the heat for most neighborhoods. Winds should stay light, so any storms that do pop up could still kick up brief gusts. Organizers of outdoor events and commuters should be ready for sudden changes in conditions.
Cooling Options And Safety
If you do not have reliable air conditioning, the Hospitality Hub at 590 Washington Avenue is open during heat activations, and MATA can arrange rides on request. Local partners are already staffing downtown relief sites. For background and more on available resources, see Memphis turns into a pressure cooker.
Quick Safety Tips
Avoid strenuous outdoor activity between noon and 8:00 PM, check on older neighbors and young children, and move pets to cool, shaded areas. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness. If someone shows these symptoms, get them to a cool place and seek medical attention if they do not improve.
