The Mid-South is heading into a classic summer pattern as temperatures in Memphis, Jackson, Oxford, and nearby cities steadily climb toward the 90s by the end of the week. After a stretch of mild days in the 80s, the heat is expected to return in full force by Friday and Saturday, bringing hot afternoons, warm nights, and rising humidity levels across west Tennessee and north Mississippi.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, the next few days will see a gradual warming trend, with daytime highs staying just below 90°F through Tuesday. However, the real heat will start to build by Wednesday, when highs begin creeping into the low-90s, and by the weekend, Memphis is forecast to hit 93°F, with surrounding areas experiencing similar or slightly hotter conditions. As humidity increases, the heat index—or “feels-like” temperature—could feel closer to 100°F, especially during peak afternoon hours.
While the rising temperatures are the main concern for the week ahead, there’s also a 20% to 40% chance of scattered afternoon thunderstorms through Wednesday, especially along the Tennessee River and into northeast Mississippi. These storms, though brief, may bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and dangerous lightning. Storms are most likely in the late afternoon to early evening, and could cause temporary disruptions to outdoor plans or commutes.
With warmer days and muggy nights expected, health officials urge residents to take heat safety seriously. It’s important to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and avoid outdoor work or exercise during the hottest parts of the day. If you have outdoor events or work scheduled, try to take breaks in the shade or indoors and check local weather alerts in case storms develop quickly.
Overnight temperatures will also be on the warmer side, with lows remaining in the upper 60s to low 70s, offering little relief from the day’s heat. That means homes without air conditioning may remain uncomfortably warm, especially for vulnerable individuals like the elderly or those with medical conditions.
Looking ahead, the hot, humid weather is expected to stick around into the weekend, with little sign of cooling down. Forecasters suggest that more updates and possibly heat advisories may be issued as temperatures continue to rise. Storm chances are lower after Wednesday but could return if the heat continues to build and instability increases.
In short, the Mid-South is entering a typical August stretch—hot, sticky, and stormy at times. Stay weather-aware, keep cool, and plan accordingly as summer heat returns in full force.
