Knoxville woke to mostly clear skies and temperatures around 75 degrees Saturday morning, but the day is headed toward a much harsher finish. The high is expected to reach 94 degrees, with heat index values climbing as high as 105.
A few showers and thunderstorms could develop between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m., though the chance of rain is only 20%. Winds should stay light from the west, according to the National Weather Service, but any storm that forms could bring a brief downpour or gusty winds.
Heat Holds Through Monday
Saturday night will remain partly cloudy and muggy, with a low near 75 degrees. Sunday looks hotter, with sunshine, a high near 96 and another heat index around 105.
A Heat Advisory is currently posted through 8 p.m. Sunday for parts of southern Tennessee, while forecasters say the advisory may need to expand northward into the Knoxville area Sunday and Monday. The safest window for outdoor plans will be earlier in the day, before the afternoon heat peaks.
Monday Brings The Best Storm Chance
Monday should again reach about 96 degrees, but the chance of showers and thunderstorms rises to 50% after 2 p.m. Storm chances continue into Monday night, when temperatures dip to around 73.
Midweek Eases Slightly
Tuesday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 92, followed by another mostly sunny day and a high near 94 Wednesday. Rain chances return Thursday and Friday, with highs easing to about 91 and 89, respectively.
Residents should drink plenty of water, take breaks in air conditioning or shade, and check on older neighbors and anyone especially vulnerable to heat. Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle, even for a short errand.
