LAUDERDALE COUNTY, Miss. — An extreme heat warning is in effect for Lauderdale County and portions of Mississippi through Monday evening, with heat index values expected to reach as high as 111 degrees.
The National Weather Service in Jackson issued the warning Sunday afternoon. Lauderdale Emergency Management distributed the alert locally.
The warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17.
According to the National Weather Service, dangerously hot conditions are expected across portions of central, east central, north central, northeast and southeast Mississippi.
The combination of extreme heat and high humidity can significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, remain in air-conditioned areas when possible, stay out of direct sunlight and check on relatives and neighbors.
The National Weather Service also warns against leaving young children or pets inside unattended vehicles. Temperatures inside a vehicle can become deadly within minutes.
Those who must spend time outdoors are encouraged to take additional precautions, including wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limiting strenuous activities to the early morning or evening hours when possible.
Residents should also be alert for symptoms of heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses.
The extreme heat warning was issued at 2:29 p.m. Sunday and distributed by Lauderdale Emergency Management shortly afterward.
