Memphis TN, September 17, 2025
News Summary
Memphis is facing a severe heat wave with temperatures reaching up to 95ยฐF, compounded by high humidity, raising health risks such as heat exhaustion and stroke. A Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued, urging residents to stay indoors during peak heat hours and ensure proper hydration. The situation is particularly critical for vulnerable populations, including inmates at the Shelby County Jail, where air conditioning has failed. While a slight cooling trend may follow, temperatures will continue to remain high throughout the week, necessitating caution and community awareness.
Memphis is bracing for an extreme heat wave this week, with high temperatures expected to reach around 95ยฐF. The weather forecast indicates clear skies and a low of 71ยฐF. A Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued, effective through sunset on Wednesday, due to the ongoing heat wave that has enveloped the region since September 10.
Throughout the Mid-South, afternoon temperatures are predicted to be in the low to mid-90s, with minimal rain chances of 10% as warm weather persists. Local health officials have raised alarms about the heat index potentially reaching as high as 110ยฐF each afternoon due to increased humidity levels. This dangerous combination of heat and humidity poses significant health risks, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
In order to combat these risks, health experts advise residents to remain indoors during peak heat hours, ensure proper hydration, and closely monitor vulnerable populations, including children and pets. Community safety measures have also been highlighted, such as warnings against leaving children or pets in hot cars and suggestions for scheduling outdoor activities, like walks for pets, during early mornings or late evenings to avoid hot pavement.
The situation has become particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, as the air conditioning system has malfunctioned at the Shelby County Jail. This has raised significant alarms regarding inmate welfare amid the soaring temperatures.
Looking forward, the weather forecast suggests a slight cooling with potential rain, though high temperatures are still expected to range from 93ยฐF to 96ยฐF throughout the week. This extended period of extreme heat may have lasting impacts on residents and infrastructure as the community copes with the unusual conditions.
As Memphis faces these challenging weather conditions, it is essential for all residents to take precautions and be vigilant about their health and safety as the heat wave continues into next week.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the expected high temperatures in Memphis?
High temperatures around 95ยฐF are expected in Memphis, with a clear sky and low of 71ยฐF.
Is there an air quality alert in effect?
A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect through sunset on Wednesday, due to the ongoing heat wave.
What are the health risks associated with extreme heat?
Some health risks associated with extreme heat include heat exhaustion and heat stroke; hydration is crucial.
What precautions should residents take during the heat wave?
Precautions advised include staying indoors during peak heat hours, ensuring proper hydration, and monitoring vulnerable populations like children and pets.
When can we expect cooler weather?
Future weather forecasts suggest slight cooling with potential rain but high temperatures ranging from 93ยฐF to 96ยฐF expected throughout the week.
Key Features of the Ongoing Heat Wave in Memphis
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected High Temperature | 95ยฐF |
| Air Quality Alert | Code Orange until sunset Wednesday |
| Heat Index | Near 110ยฐF |
| Health Risks | Heat exhaustion, heat stroke |
| Inmate Welfare Concerns | Air conditioning outage at Shelby County Jail |
| Next Week’s Forecast | High temperatures from 93ยฐF to 96ยฐF |
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Additional Resources
- Fox13 Memphis: Cooler Temps Remain Before It Begins to Heat Back Up
- Wikipedia: Heat Wave
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Weekend Weather
- Google Search: Memphis Weather
- Hoodline: Memphis Braces for Continued Heatwave
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Air Quality
- Local Memphis: Memphis Weather Forecast
- Google News: Memphis Heat Wave
- Commercial Appeal: Weekend Weather Memphis
- Google Scholar: Heat Wave Health Risks
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
