Triple digit weather will make its return this week. Beginning Tuesday, Nashville and surrounding areas are in for three consecutive days of 100 degree weather. According to the National Weather Service, Nashville can expect a high of 100 on Tuesday, and between a 60-70% chance of reaching or exceeding 100 on Wednesday.
Tuesday through Thursday, many areas west of the Cumberland Plateau will have medium to high chances of hitting 100, said the weather service. Although most areas will stay below heat advisory levels, the weather service is still warning of the risk of heat-related illness.
Per the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, an abnormally dry drought (D0) continues to affect the southern half of Tennessee while a moderate drought (D1) affects southern portions of West Tennessee, southwest Middle Tennessee and areas near Chattanooga. A severe drought (D2) is in place for southwest Middle Tennessee.
Drought conditions are expected to persist across the region, however, conditions are expected to gradually improve throughout the fall months. Some relief from the heat will arrive on Friday in the form of scattered thunderstorms, but "nothing to get too excited about in terms of helping the drought." said the weather service.
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How hot is the Nashville area expected to get?
The areas feeling the brunt of the heat will be Nashville, Clarksville, Lawrenceburg, and Columbia. On Wednesday, all areas will experience a high chance (70-100%) of reaching at least 100, with the rest of the week experiencing a medium chance of reaching 100 (40-69%).
The weather service is advising people to stay hydrated, reduce time spent outdoors and to remain in a cool place during periods of high heat.
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What weather can the Nashville area expect throughout Labor Day weekend?
Labor Day is expected to be cooler as temperatures return to normal and humidity will not be as bad, said the weather service. Scattered thunderstorms throughout the afternoon are expected.
"There might be a pattern shift going into the first weekend of September/Labor Day that could bring some relief from the heat, but there's no guarantee for impactful rainfall at this time," said National Weather Service Meteorologist Ryan Husted.
What heat-related illnesses are there? What are the signs to watch out for?
- Sunburn- Redness and pain are indicators of a sunburn. In severe cases swelling of skin, blisters, fever, and headaches can occur. Ointments may be applied to alleviate a sunburn, although more serious cases should be seen by a physician.
- Heat cramps- Heat cramps cause painful spasms usually in muscles of the legs and abdomen. Heavy sweating is also possible. Firm pressure should be applied on the cramping muscles, gentle massaging may also relieve the spasm. Sips of water may also be given.
- Heat exhaustion- Someone with heat exhaustion may experience heavy sweating, weakness, and cold, pale and clammy skin. They may also experience fainting and vomiting. If someone experiences heat exhaustion, get the victim out of the sun. Lay down, loosen their clothing and apply cool, wet cloths. Offer the victim sips of water and move them to an air conditioned room. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
- Heat stroke- People experiencing heat stroke will have a high body temperature of 106 or higher. They will have a rapid and strong pulse and hot, dry skin. They may become unconscious. Heat stroke is considered a severe medical emergency, victims should be given medical assistance or transported to a hospital immediately, as delays can be fatal. Victims should be moved to a cooler environment, body temperature may be reduced with cold bath or sponging, with extreme caution. If temperatures rise again, repeat the process. It is not recommended to offer fluids.
How to remain cool during extreme heat
In instances of extreme heat, the weather service recommends the following:
- Slowing down- Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals most at risk, like older adults and young children, should stay in the coolest available place.
- Dressing appropriately- Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
- Consuming the right foods- Certain foods, like proteins, increase metabolic heat production and also increase water loss. Be sure to drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids, as the body needs water to keep cool.
- Avoiding alcoholic beverages
- Reducing time in the sun- Spend more time in air-conditioned places. If you're outside, take frequent breaks in the shade. Try to avoid the sun, as sunburn makes the job of heat dissipation much more difficult.
Diana Leyva covers trending news and service journalism for The Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com or follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, at @_leyvadiana
