Humidity levels on the rise

After a week of abundant sunshine, I am sure there are some of you who are wondering why we are finally seeing those high heat indices on the rise in Missouri.

As we approach the summer months, Missouri is known for having long periods of oppressive heat index values paired with several days of unforgiving sunshine. This past week has nothing like that at all! Although this weekend is the beginning of the end of that favorable trend.

Upper level ridging has been the reason for dry and comfortable weather this past week, but it will not be lasting as we head into next week. Upper level ridging that has been filling Mid-Missouri with dry and cool air and will begin to move off to the east as an upper level trough over the western US begins to take over.

As of this Saturday morning, this trough has started pulling in warm and moist air into the area. This moist and warm southerly air will continue to pull over Mid-Missouri for the next few days. Moisture will continue to build, causing dew point temperatures to rise. This will ultimately make the air feel heavier and stickier; especially as we head into Tuesday.

Heat index values are likely going to be in the lower 90s for Saturday, the mid 90s for Sunday, and into the upper 90s and possible the lower 100s by Monday and Tuesday.

Relief to these humid conditions is on the way though. A cold front is expected to pull through by Wednesday, instigating a rain and thunderstorm chance by midweek.