Weather Alert Day: Dangerous heat sets in Sunday through Friday

The ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Team has issued a Weather Alert Day for the potential of dangerous heat Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. While all of next week will present a risk of dangerous heat, the hottest days with the best chance of heat indexes in the most dangerous 105-110 degre range will fall within this window.

After widespread rain and storms ended this past week, the pattern begins to shift over the weekend as the warm front lifts northward and high pressure settles to our south, pushing the jet stream northward and drawing up warm, moist air from the Gulf.

This strong high-pressure system looks to stick around across the southeast for much of the week, keeping temperatures locked in the 90s. Gulf moisture will make the air feel very stagnant and thick with dew points in the 70s.

The combination of high dew points and high temperatures will yield heat indices between 100 and 110 degrees from Sunday through at least Thursday. The hottest days are forecast to be Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Daily heat indexes in the triple digits and overnight lows in the 70s will wear on anyone without access to effective air conditioning, especially those sensitive to heat-related illnesses.

If you're traveling to Kansas City or St. Louis, you should expect it to feel hotter in each city throughout the week, in comparison to rural areas of Mid-Missouri. The expansive pavement and lack of green cover can create hotter environments, especially over time, as buildings and pavement hold heat overnight, leading to greater warmth during the day.

Try to limit your time outdoors during peak heating hours from late morning through dusk. Wear light colored, loose-fitting clothing, and stay hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks, especially if you work outdoors.

Make sure pets have cool shelter and plenty of water, and avoid going on longer walks during the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets unattended in hot vehicles and always check the back seat.