JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) – A dangerous combination of heat and humidity is expected in Central MS this afternoon. Temperatures are expected to be between 95 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit, with heat indices as high as 104 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. A heat advisory is in effect for most of the region until 8 p.m. tonight. Temperatures will gradually cool to 75 degrees Fahrenheit under mostly clear skies.

The forecast for Wednesday will be almost a repeat of today as the brutal heat continues. We will again experience highs around 38 degrees, with a small chance of some sudden showers.

If our strong ridge of high pressure that is keeping our weather muggy can break down, we could have a slightly higher chance of rain later in the week. There is still some uncertainty, but a few showers or thunderstorms could be possible through Friday and into the weekend. Stay tuned for more details. Temperatures through the weekend are expected to remain above average in the 35 to 40 degrees.

Talking about the tropics: Tropical Storm Ernesto will impact the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico with strong winds and torrential rain through tonight. From there, Ernesto will move northward toward the Atlantic Ocean and become a hurricane. The United States is still expected to be spared direct impacts.