Insider: Forecast for the first bell

Whether you’re heading back Monday in Jefferson City, Tuesday in Columbia, or walking onto Mizzou’s campus next week, we’re starting off hot. Highs will be pushing into the 90s those first couple of days, so short sleeves are the way to go.

For Jefferson City students, your first day starts on Monday, August 18. Expect super warm temperatures, with highs in the lower 90s. If you're going out to recess, bring a water bottle and look for lots of shade, those heat index values could reach into the 100s by the afternoon.

Columbia students start school the very next day, and temperatures don't chill out too much. We're looking at 90s once again for those temperatures, but the chance for some spotty showers in the afternoon. If you plan on walking home or being outside, consider packing a mini umbrella or a rain coat.

Those of you doing back to school shopping should consider purchasing some tissues as allergy season looks to pick back up soon. As summer comes to a close, those longer evening times give more opportunity for ragweed development. Then, as we head into a dry, windy fall, those conditions help to transport those allergens in the air. This could cause a spike in allergy season by the time school starts.

For the rest of fall, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac, a lot of us are looking to remain warm and dry. Highs on average for the first day of school are in the mid to upper 80s, so with forecasted highs in the lower nineties this year, we're already off to a warm start.