Tennessee is feeling the heat more intensely this year. The state’s summer temperatures are, on average, three degrees warmer than they were back in 1970, according to an analysis by a nonprofit organization.
Researchers from Climate Central examined summer temperature data from 1970 to 2024, relying on information maintained by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
The results showed that average summer temperatures across Tennessee have risen since 1970. In particular, Obion County experienced a change of about 0.7 degrees, while Macon and Montgomery counties recorded increases of around 2.7 degrees.
As for the safety concerns, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that hot weather is linked to a rise in fever-related illnesses. They note that communities in western and northeastern Tennessee are especially susceptible to these health impacts.
Additionally, the National Weather Service reported an increase in heatwaves this summer, with average high temperatures in June surpassing typical averages for some areas in Tennessee.
In June, Nashville, Clarksville, and Crossville experienced both higher and lower than usual temperatures. For instance, Clarksville’s average low reached 69 degrees, which is four degrees above normal. Meanwhile, Nashville’s average temperature hit 89.4 degrees, about 1.7 degrees warmer than usual.
Furthermore, Nashville recorded temperatures above 90 degrees on 14 separate days that month.
In Memphis, the highest temperature in June reached 95 degrees, an increase of 6 degrees over the usual monthly high, although the area’s monthly low was below the normal low of 69 degrees.
Moving to eastern Tennessee, Knoxville reported its warmest June since 2016, marking 10 days with temperatures above 90 degrees, which is three more than the usual count.
Who Faces the Most Heat Risk?
The CDC’s Fever and Health Index provides insights into historical temperatures and health factors that influence vulnerability to heat. It considers issues like existing health conditions, demographics, and environmental factors.
Residents in Ripley’s 38063 Zip Code are indicated to be more vulnerable to heat effects than about 93% of the U.S. population.
In northwestern Tennessee, residents of Rogersville may be at even greater risk, exceeding 94.1% of the national average in vulnerability. Factors contributing to this increased risk include poverty, disability status, being over 65, and lacking health insurance. The prevalence of mobile homes in the area further heightens vulnerability to extreme heat.
According to this index, Morristown’s 37,813 Zip Code is identified as Tennessee’s most vulnerable community, ranking it among the top 98.2% in the country for heat-related risks.
