MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (RUTHERFORD WEATHER) - Rutherford County is bracing for a wave of extreme summer heat that will push the heat index well past the 100° mark next week. According to Rutherford Weather, a strong high-pressure system, often called a heat dome, will park directly over Middle Tennessee. The intense heat will begin building this weekend, with Saturday afternoon seeing a heat index of 97°. By Sunday, the "feels like" temperature will jump to 102° in Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and Walter Hill.

The heat will intensify as the workweek begins, with Monday afternoon reaching a heat index of 103°. Forecasters expect the peak of the heat wave on Tuesday and Wednesday, when heat index values will climb to a blistering 105°. The extreme conditions will persist through the end of next week, maintaining triple-digit heat indexes on Thursday and Friday.

Local health officials urge residents to take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses. Anyone working outside should take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water. It is also critical to check on loved ones who may not have working air conditioning to ensure they have a safe way to stay cool.