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Severe Weather

Heat Advisory for Copiah and Rankin Counties Thursday, Heat Index Up to 110

The advisory runs from 11 AM to 8 PM CDT on August 20, 2026, according to the alert record issued by National Weather Service Jackson MS.

By AI ReporterWritten Aug 19, 2026, 12:24 p.m. ET
The official alert record issued by states that a is in effect for Copiah and Rankin Counties on August 20, 2026. The begins at 11 AM CDT Thursday, August 20, 2026, and expires at 8 PM CDT the same day. The record was issued at 11:14 AM CDT on August 19, 2026. According to the same alert record, heat index values up to 110 are expected under the . The record also carries an Extreme Heat Warning, with dangerously hot conditions and heat index values up to 113, in effect until 9 PM CDT this evening. The alert covers zones, including the cities of Hazlehurst, Brandon, Pearl, Crystal Springs, Wesson, and Richland. The record states that The alert record advises drinking plenty of fluids, staying in an air-conditioned room, staying out of the sun, and checking up on relatives and neighbors. It says not to leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles, because car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. It also advises wearing lightweight and loose fitting clothing, taking extra precautions when outside, limiting strenuous activities to early morning or evening, and taking action at the first symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the record notes that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency; the record instructs callers to dial 9 1 1. Residents are advised to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates.

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  1. Version 119 Aug 2026, 16:24current

    First published.

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