These temps will be staying for a while

Dangerous conditions likely to remain into next week

Memphis is in its first heat wave of the summer with a forecast of highs in the mid-90s and a heat index hovering near 106 into next week, according to the National Weather Service Memphis.

"We're going to be in a heat wave with a heat index between 105 and 107 in the Memphis area during the day," said meteorologist Andy Chiuppi. "It may still be in the mid-80s at night," Chiuppi said. A combination of very hot temperatures and high humidity levels without relief in the form of precipitation, heat waves can be a huge problem for low-income residents and older Memphians who are homebound.

As a part of Memphis Light Gas and Water Division's weather-related moratorium, the utility company will suspend the disconnection of service for residential customers under the following conditions:

The heat index will be 100 degrees or above at any time on the day of a scheduled disconnection of service. The Tennessee Department of Health suggests some simple steps residents can take to avoid suffering from ailments like heatstroke and heat exhaustion: » Remain indoors in air-conditioned rooms during hot temperatures » Avoid excessive physical exertion outdoors » Wear loose, light-colored clothing » Drink extra fluids (8 ounces of water minimum)

The heat index forecast will be 95 degrees or more on the day of scheduled disconnection of service, and the residential customer is 60 years of age or older, disabled or certified as dependent on life support in their home.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health's website, the risk of heat illness is present when the heat index is 100 degrees or more.

In response to the rise in temperature, the city of Memphis was expected to open a cooling center Wednesday evening, according to Arlenia Cole, media affairs manager for the City.