Dangerous heat threatens Mississippi through Wednesday

Dangerous heat is expected across Mississippi from July 20 through Wednesday, July 22, with heat indices reaching 110 to 115 degrees in the Mississippi Delta and up to 110 degrees elsewhere in the state, a Facebook post warned Monday.

The heat index combines air temperature and humidity to estimate how hot it feels, and prolonged exposure can quickly lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Older adults, infants, people with chronic illnesses and outdoor workers face higher risk during extreme heat.

Officials and public health guidance urge residents to drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks if working or exercising outdoors and move to air-conditioned locations whenever possible. The social media message also reminded people never to leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.

The Mississippi Delta is a low-lying region in the northwestern part of the state that can experience high humidity in summer, which boosts heat indices. We will provide more information as it becomes available.