The National Weather Service has expanded and extended a Heat Advisory across a broad stretch of the Cumberland Plateau and Southeast Tennessee as dangerously high temperatures and humidity continue to grip the region. Cumberland, Fentress, Grundy, Pickett, and Van Buren Counties are now under a Heat Advisory through 7:00 PM CDT Friday, with heat index values expected to climb between 100 and 105 degrees each afternoon.

Additionally, a separate advisory is in effect for Bledsoe, Marion, and Sequatchie Counties, where oppressive heat and humidity are expected to push heat indices as high as 105 degrees from noon Tuesday through 6:00 PM CDT Wednesday.

The extended duration of this heat event increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those working or spending time outdoors, as well as the elderly and individuals without access to cooling. Residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit time in the sun, use air conditioning whenever possible, and check in on neighbors and family members.

This advisory is a reminder to take extreme heat seriously. Precautions taken now can prevent serious health complications in the days ahead.