West Plains, MO. – Extreme heat and health risks associated with heat-related illness will be on the rise through the rest of the week.
The National Weather Service issued a Heat Advisory for the entire Ozark Radio Network broadcast area to begin at 1 pm today and last until Friday at 7 pm.
An Excessive Heat Watch will be in effect from Thursday morning through Friday Evening for Carter and Ripley Counties and many more in southeast Missouri and into Illinois, Kentucky, Arkansas, and further south.
An Excessive Heat Warning is currently in effect for Sharp, Randolph, Independence, Lawrence, and Jackson Counties in northern Arkansas.
The Heat Advisory is expecting daily afternoon and evening heat index values of 100-109. The highest heat values are expected Thursday and Friday. Overnight lows are expected to remain in the upper 70s. The warmer overnight temperatures could cause additional heat-related health issues with people and animals that will be outside.
The precautionary actions to be taken for these remain largely the same. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9-1-1.
