Mississippi will earn its seasonal reputation for being amazingly hot in August today and over the next several days as hot humid weather across much of the state will make the temperatures feel like they’re reaching 106 to 110 degrees.

The National Weather Service’s Jackson office has issued a heat advisory for areas of Mississippi from southwest Mississippi up along the river to the Memphis, Tennessee area and across the middle of the state to the Alabama line.

The advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today. Since forecasters expect the hot humid temperatures to persist until early next week, more heat advisories are expected in the days to come as well.

Forecasters predict afternoon temperatures will climb into the mid-90s and combined with high humidity will make air temperatures feel like it’s between 106 and 110 degrees.

Such high heat indices make threats of heat exhaustion and heat stroke much more likely if people (and pets) are not adequately cooled and kept hydrated.

Experts say to use extra care if you have to work or spend time outdoors today including:

Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing.
Drinking plenty of fluids (likely more than you think you need).
Take breaks to get out of the direct sun.
Stay in air-conditioned spaces if possible, or during breaks.
Check regularly on relative and neighbors, particularly the elderly or infirm.