JACKSON — At this time of year, Mississippians are used to the temperatures being really unpleasantly high, but currently it feels a little hotter than usual according to some.
As Mississippi is baking under oppressive late-summer heat, with temperatures near or above 100 degrees and warm overnight lows giving residents little relief, the dangerous conditions are expected to continue for days.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is urging Mississippians to limit time outdoors, drink plenty of water and watch for signs of heat-related illness as the prolonged stretch of extreme heat continues.
In the Jackson area, temperatures were expected to reach 100 degrees Wednesday, followed by a forecast high of 99 Thursday. High temperatures are expected to remain in the mid- to upper 90s through at least the end of August, according to the forecast.
The heat is being made more dangerous by humidity, which raises the heat index, a measure of how hot it feels when humidity is combined with the actual air temperature. Recent conditions across the South have pushed heat index values above 105 degrees in parts of the region, according to The Weather Channel.
Meteorologists say the overnight heat is also a growing concern. Lows across much of the South have remained in the 70s, with some urban areas seeing overnight temperatures stay near or above 80 degrees.
That lack of nighttime cooling can be particularly dangerous because the body has less opportunity to recover from the previous day’s heat. Heat stress can compound over several days, increasing the risk of heat-related illness, particularly for people without access to air conditioning.
“August is always hot,” Weather Channel Lead Editor Chris DeWeese wrote in a newsletter, but the danger of the current heat wave is that “the nights have not always been this hot.”
MEMA describes a heat wave as a period of abnormally hot and humid weather generally lasting more than two days and warns that extreme heat is responsible for more weather-related deaths each year than any other weather hazard.
The agency advises Mississippians to limit their time outside whenever possible. Those who must spend extended periods outdoors should take frequent breaks in the shade, wear loose clothing and drink plenty of water.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly and disabled neighbors, friends and relatives, particularly those who may not have adequate air conditioning.
The heat can be dangerous for anyone, but older adults, young children, people with chronic health problems and those who work or exercise outdoors face an increased risk of heat-related illness.
Heat exhaustion can cause dizziness, fainting, excessive sweating, nausea, muscle cramps and cool, pale or clammy skin. MEMA recommends moving to an air-conditioned or cooler location, drinking water if the person is fully conscious and using a cool shower or cold compresses.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Warning signs can include confusion, a throbbing headache, hot and dry skin, a rapid and strong pulse, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness and a dangerously high body temperature. Anyone suspected of suffering from heat stroke should be moved to a cooler location, cooled with wet cloths or a cool bath, and emergency help should be called immediately. MEMA advises against giving the person anything to drink.
The Mississippi heat is also forcing some residents to adjust their daily routines.
On the Gulf Coast, WLOX Meteorologist Aaron Colby warned that the combination of temperatures approaching 100 degrees and heavy humidity is making the current conditions more intense than a typical August day.
“We’re going to be seeing near-record temperatures, so this is a lot warmer; this is a lot more intense than even just your typical August feel,” Colby said.
Pets are susceptible to extreme heat too. Photo: ShutterstockResidents who exercise or walk pets are being encouraged to do so early in the morning or later in the evening and to limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day.
Pet owners should also take precautions. MEMA advises against allowing dogs to linger on hot asphalt or concrete, which can burn sensitive paw pads and quickly increase their body temperature. Pets should have access to shade and fresh water, and strenuous exercise should be restricted when temperatures soar.
And, officials stress, people and pets should never be left inside a parked vehicle, even briefly or in the shade.
The American Red Cross also advises people not to rely solely on electric fans during extreme heat, particularly when temperatures reach the high 90s. Spending time in air-conditioned spaces, taking a cool shower or bath and planning ahead for a power outage can help reduce the risk of heat illness.
As the heat continues, emergency officials say preparation and checking on others can be as important as watching the thermometer.
Mississippians are urged to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary afternoon activity, take frequent breaks if working outside and pay attention to the early warning signs of heat-related illness.
