Insider: Why cities experience warmer temperatures than rural areas

With this upcoming heat wave affecting most of mid-Missouri, heat index temperatures are expected to reach 90s and above. However, some areas will be heating up more than others.

The urban heat island effect refers to cities and other landscapes that are considered a "built environment." These areas have more concrete and asphalt compared to rural areas with greater natural landscapes.

Trees and green spaces help to release moisture through evaporation to help cool off the atmosphere. The shade vegetation provides also helps to cool surface temperature and reduces a term called albedo. Albedo is a value that measures how much light a surface reflects.

When it comes to cities, the albedo is reduced. Less green space means theres less opportunity for heat and sunlight to be absorbed. So where does it go? Back into the air, increasing those temperatures sometimes by up to 15 degrees in highly developed areas.

St. Louis is a highly developed city with lots of infrastructure and roads, but a lot less green space. The National Weather Service has issued heat advisory for much of the midwest. However, an extreme heat warning is issued for this upcoming weekend in St. Louis, a great example of the urban heat island effect.

Areas like Columbia and Jefferson City also have a chance of experiencing the heat island effect. However these are smaller cities with more green spaces, so the temperature difference isn't as extreme.

To beat the heat this weekend, seek cool, shaded spaces and drink plenty of water. If you do live near a city, consider planting a tree or investing in cool, reflective roofing to help reduce the heat island effect.