Moving away from spring showers and into some of the hottest times of the year, the outside atmosphere of Memphis shifts into what one could describe as a sauna. With relentless heat paired with waves of humidity, it is safe to say people are, and will be, seeking shade and a cold beverage.
That raises the question: What is the hottest month in Memphis?
According to Weather Trends, a comprehensive data set of weather patterns, July and August rank as the hottest months in Memphis with an average temperature of 91 and 90 degrees, respectively. The hottest month ever recorded in Memphis was July of 1980, with highs reaching up to a record 108 and 107 on consecutive days, according to data from the National Weather Service.
It is no secret that the heat can be unbearable and even dangerous to some at times. Long exposure to the brutal heat can induce heatstroke, which, paired with other underlying medical conditions, can quickly be fatal. Here are some ways you can ensure safety for yourself and your loved ones this summer.
How can I stay safe on hot days in Memphis?
Sunscreen is a necessity in the summer months. Even while you are indoors or on more cloudy days, UV rays from the sun can still damage skin, putting people at an increased risk of skin cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Keeping a close eye on the weather forecast, especially the heat index, is vital for people with children who love to play outside. Regular breaks and lots of hydration are keys to keeping younger ones safe in the heat. Infants, especially, are at an increased risk because of being idle and exposed to the sun on a more consistent basis.
Stressing the importance of sun safety to children is imperative, as they are naturally at a higher risk of suffering from sun-related medical problems.
Water should be everyone’s best friend in the summertime. Dehydration can onset faster than one could expect and can have severe consequences. Symptoms such as dry mouth or skin, dizziness, and rapid heart rate are key signs of it.
For babies and infants, a lack of tears while crying, sunken eyes, and crankiness are signs of severe dehydration, according to the Mayo Clinic.
To those who enjoy going for a run outside, it may be time to rethink your route. Try to find running trails that have lots of shade or are close to air-conditioned buildings to take breaks. Alternatively, there are many sites in Memphis with indoor running or walking tracks.
Using these to your advantage is the best way to safely stay active in the coming months.
Jaylon Hawkins is a news reporter for The Commercial Appeal. He can be reached at jaylon.hawkins@commercialappeal.com.
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis summer weather: Here’s when to expect the hottest temperatures