Weather Alert Day: Dangerous heat wave arrives this weekend

An ABC 17 Stormtrack Weather Alert Day has been issued from Sunday through Tuesday for a dangerous heat wave that will drive the heat index into the triple digits for several days.

High pressure over the Desert Southwest will expand into the Midwest this weekend, pushing rain chances north of Mid-Missouri. Temperatures and humidity will also increase as winds begin to blow from the southwest.

This combination of heat and moisture will be dangerous both during the day and at night. Nighttime low temperatures will remain elevated, which is known to increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

The heat index will soar to between 100 and 105 degrees each day from Sunday through Tuesday, coupled with mostly sunny skies. Rain chances will be low this weekend, with a few storms possibly brushing northern Missouri Sunday and Monday. Our area remains hot and humid.

Low temperatures also remain warm in the mid-70s. Overnight temperatures above 75 degrees can strain the body and contribute to water loss when our bodies are trying to recover from the heat of the day. Keeping your bedroom temperature cooler in the low 70s or 60s can mitigate this risk and help you get better sleep.

Take care during this heat wave by reducing strenuous outdoor activities, staying in the AC as much as possible, and drinking lots of water. Get your plans done in the early morning or late evening, and keep kids and pets off hot surfaces.