The heat is coming.
High temperatures in the mid-90’s are expected Thursday, making it difficult to stay cool. Katy Linnenbrink with SEMA, the State Emergency Management Agency, highlighted when it begins to get dangerous outside.
“Just the temperature itself is one thing and then that, combined with that heat index and humidity, can actually make it feel much hotter than just the temperature itself,” she told Missourinet. “So, it’s really important to make sure you are paying attention to your local forecast, so you know what to expect.”
Heat index values could range between 100 and 106 degrees tomorrow as well. Actual air temps should level off a bit, dipping to the low 90’s this weekend across much of Missouri.
Warmer temperatures are expected today, with highs in the upper 80s to lower 90s. Hot and humid conditions arrive tomorrow, with afternoon max heat index values on the order of 100-106 degrees. pic.twitter.com/vQ4ayR7Red
— NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) June 12, 2024
“For those people who might not have access to air conditioning, the Department of Health and Senior Services does have an online interactive map that will show you nearby cooling centers,” she said. So, places like public libraries, schools, malls, places like that.”
She also recommended that you make a list of friends, family, neighbors, and pets to check on when the forecast calls for extreme heat.
Don’t wait until heat arrives to begin protecting yourself. If the forecast calls for extreme heat, begin preparing NOW. Stay #WeatherReady for the summer! Check out our latest weather safety graphics, videos, social media posts, & more at: https://t.co/AIsdmfi1FX#SummerSafety pic.twitter.com/2B7zk4oGor
— NWS St. Louis (@NWSStLouis) June 12, 2024
“That heat index is going to make it feel like it’s well over 100,” she explained. “You know, 103, 106. So, even when we start getting up there into the high 80s and 90s, that heat index can make it feel like it’s well over 100-degrees.”
Linnenbrink also said to make sure you have your telephone handy.
“You really want to be checking in on friends and family who might not have air conditioning or who might have medical conditions or other circumstances that are going to make them more susceptible to that extreme heat,” she said.
Residents are also reminded to make sure that nothing or no one is left behind in the vehicle.
“Even on a cooler day, temperature inside a vehicle can rise by 20-degrees in just ten minutes, which can be very dangerous to anyone left inside – a child or a pet,” she explained. “So, it’s really important that you are looking you lock, and checking the backseat each time you exit your vehicle.”
The heat impacts vulnerable populations including pregnant women, newborns, children, elderly, and people with chronic illnesses.
© 2024, Missourinet.