KNOXVILLE - The Knox County Regional Forensic Center is currently investigating six deaths that are possibly tied to last week’s regional heat wave that lasted through the July 4 holiday.

The results are preliminary and pending medical examiner evaluation and toxicology testing. Four of the people are from Knox County and two are from outside the RFC’s jurisdiction.

Last year five people in Knox and Anderson counties died as a result of hyperthermia, and two people died as a result of hyperthermia in 2024.

“Heat-related deaths are often preventable, and these cases serve as an important reminder that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly for older adults, individuals with underlying medical conditions, and those without adequate access to cooling,” said Chris Thomas, director and chief administrative officer of the Knox County RFC. “We encourage everyone to take heat advisories seriously, stay hydrated, check on vulnerable family members and neighbors, and seek a cool environment whenever possible.”

Hyperthermia is a condition where the body’s main temperature rises significantly above normal because the body is either taking in or generating more heat that it can dissipate. Heat-related deaths generally occur after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, intense physical activity in the heat, and/or dehydration.

From last Monday through this past Saturday temperatures often soared into the mid-90s and even reached 97 degrees at times. But the heat index, which measure what the temperature actually feels like, jumped well above 100 degrees.

Many local organizations, including Knox Area Rescue Ministries and Volunteer Ministry Center, provided relief by setting up cooling shelters and cooling stations. The Knox County Health Department also provided advice about how to avoid heat-related illness through social media.

Although temperatures are expected to drop some, summer isn’t even halfway over.

Those at highest risk of hyperthermia are children, adults 65 years and older, outside workers, and people with disabilities, according to the Knox County Health Department.

"As temperatures rise, it's important to take steps to protect yourself from heat-related illness,” said Roberta Sturm, the health department’s director of communicable and environmental disease and emergency preparedness. “Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty, and try to limit time outdoors during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you or someone around you experiences hot, dry skin, confusion, a rapid pulse, or loses consciousness, seek immediate medical attention. These can be warning signs of heat stroke, which is a life-threatening medical emergency."

For more information about extreme heat, visit the Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability page here.