(West Plains)The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Southern Missouri beginning Saturday at noon, with dangerously high temperatures expected to persist for several days. Forecasters warn that the heat index could reach well into the triple digits, creating hazardous conditions for anyone exposed to the sun or exerting themselves outdoors.
Officials urge residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Vulnerable populations — including children, older adults, individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and those taking certain medications — face the highest risk during prolonged heat events.
How to Stay Safe in Extreme Heat
Limit Outdoor Activity:
Experts advise slowing down and reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities until cooler hours of the day, typically early morning or late evening. If possible, stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas to minimize exposure to the sun.
Dress for the Heat:
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing to help reflect heat and sunlight. Avoid dark colors, which absorb heat.
Protect Against Sunburn:
Sunburn reduces the body’s ability to cool itself. Use sunscreen, seek shade, and wear hats or sunglasses when outdoors.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Light:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and excessive sugary beverages, as they can accelerate dehydration. Eat light meals such as fruits or salads. If packing food for outdoor activities, keep it in a cooler to prevent spoilage.
Cool Down When Possible:
Use air conditioners or spend time in air-conditioned public spaces like malls, libraries, or community cooling centers. Portable electric fans can help, but avoid directing airflow toward yourself when the room temperature exceeds 90°F, as it can increase dehydration. Taking cool showers or baths can also lower body temperature quickly.
Check on Others:
Neighbors, relatives, and friends — especially those who are elderly, ill, or live alone — should be checked on regularly during the heat wave. Never leave children, disabled individuals, or pets in parked vehicles, even for a short time. Temperatures inside cars can rise to deadly levels within minutes.
Health officials stress that heat-related illnesses can escalate quickly. Warning signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. Symptoms of heat stroke, a medical emergency, include confusion, rapid pulse, and loss of consciousness. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately.
Stay informed through local news, weather apps, and the National Weather Service for updates on the extreme heat warning.
...EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON SATURDAY TO 7 PM CDT WEDNESDAY... * WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 106 expected. * WHERE...Portions of southeast Kansas and central, east central, south central, southwest, and west central Missouri. * WHEN...From noon Saturday to 7 PM CDT Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
