MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) — Dangerous heat stress will continue across the area Wednesday, with a Heat Advisory in effect from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. for Lauderdale, Neshoba, Kemper, Newton, Winston, Noxubee, Leake and surrounding counties, according to the National Weather Service in Jackson.
Wednesday morning started out with passing clouds and temperatures in the mid to upper 70s. Sunshine and clouds are expected to mix through the day, with a chance of a few scattered showers this afternoon and evening. Highs will climb into the mid 90s, and heat index values are expected to climb past 105 degrees, with some forecasts putting the feels-like temperature as high as 110 to 113 degrees. Wind gusts are also expected to pick up Wednesday, reaching between 15 and 25 mph.
Slightly less oppressive heat is expected Thursday and Friday, with highs in the low 90s and heat index values ranging between 99 and 104 degrees. Conditions will remain hot and humid, which is typical for this time of year, though relief should come gradually through the weekend.
Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Anyone who has to be outside should take frequent breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Residents are also asked to make sure neighbors, relatives and pets have a cool place to spend the day, particularly elderly residents who may be more vulnerable to the heat. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and anyone showing symptoms should receive care right away by calling 911.
A few isolated showers are possible Wednesday afternoon and evening as Tropical Storm Bertha passes well to the south, though any rain is expected to be brief and will not offer significant relief from the heat. Moisture from the storm system may also bring slightly higher rain and cloud chances to the area over the next couple of days before shower chances taper off again heading into the weekend.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts throughout the week for any changes to the advisory.