CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – With a high of 98 and a heat index that could reach 113, Montgomery County is under a Heat Warning and an Air Quality Alert today.

The Excessive Heat Warning continues from 11 a.m. Thursday through 8 p.m. Friday.

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“Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities,” according to the National Weather Service.

High temperatures in Clarksville are expected to hit 98 today, 101 on Friday and 99 on Saturday. Humidity will cause it to feel over 10 degrees hotter, with a heat index up to 113. The heat should break with coming storms Saturday and Sunday.

Air Quality Alert

In addition, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has issued a Code Orange Health Advisory for the Clarksville area until midnight tonight.

“Ground level particulate matter concentrations within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards,” the TDEC alert said. “The general public is not likely to be affected. Active children and adults, and people with a respiratory disease such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.”

MORE: What’s a heat index? Your guide to summer heat warnings, how to stay safe

Cooling shelter at Manna

Manna Café is providing a cooling shelter at the Manna Refuge building at 503 D St., according to a news release. Anyone seeking relief from the hot temperatures will be provided an air-conditioned environment, cold drinks and sandwiches.

The hours of operation are:

  • Thursday, June 29, from 1 to 6 p.m.
  • Friday, June 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Take care of pets

Montgomery County Animal Care and Control is reminding everyone to take precautions for their animals. Last year, Montgomery County had 10 heat stroke calls and at least five deaths for dogs who were either left outdoors or in a vehicle without access to shade or water.

Owners are urged to ensure dogs are kept inside, or at least have access to both shade and fresh water all day.

Heat safety tips

“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances,” the NWS said.

The NWS advises taking extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.

“Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.”

Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, the NWS said. “Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.”

Clarksville forecast

Here’s the day-by-day outlook.

Today: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 3pm and 4pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Widespread haze between 7am and 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 103. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Heat index values as high as 114. South southwest wind around 10 mph.

Friday night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. West southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. South southwest wind around 10 mph.

Sunday: A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 94. West southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Sunday night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southwest wind around 10 mph.