FORECASTTemperatures are expected to start falling today as a cold front moves through the area and will hover in the upper 80s through the end of the week. Chances of rain are slim, though the Tennessee Valley could see showers Wednesday and Thursday.Source: National Weather ServiceBEAT THE HEAT• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’ feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine or alcohol. Eat small meals more often.• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Dark colors absorb the sun’s rays.• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise in the hottest part of the day.• Take frequent breaks if you must work outdoors, and use a buddy system.• Check on family, friends and neighbors who don’t have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.Source: The Red Cross
Blistering hot temperatures are as much a part of Riverbend tradition as the music or chicken on a stick. But with Saturday marking the 14th day in a streak of 90-plus degree temperatures, festivalgoers may feel like they’re being slow-roasted.
“Even the policemen are wearing shorts,” said Chip Baker, executive director of Friends of the Festival. “People are used to the heat, but we’re still trying to encourage people to prepare appropriately for conditions at the festival.”
The temperature hit 95 degrees Saturday, continuing a relentless pattern that began May 29.
The streak can be blamed on what meteorologists call a “Bermuda high”- a semipermanent high pressure area, according to the National Weather Service at Morristown, Tenn.