Kansas City is starting Friday at about 81 degrees under clear skies, but the morning is only a brief prelude to a dangerous afternoon. Temperatures are expected to reach 98 degrees, with the heat index climbing as high as 104.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the Kansas City area through 8 p.m. Tuesday. Compared with Thursday’s earlier forecast, the update brings a higher level of heat concern and extends the most dangerous stretch into next week.
Friday Starts The Long Hot Stretch
Friday will stay sunny from morning through evening, with south-southwest winds around 6 to 10 mph. The heat will peak during the afternoon, when outdoor workers, people without reliable air conditioning and anyone planning extended time outside face the greatest risk.
Friday night will not offer much relief, with a low near 77 degrees. Saturday looks even hotter, with a sunny high near 99 and a heat index up to 105, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
According to the National Weather Service, a separate August 19-25 heatwave produced heat indices of 120-130, illustrating how much more severe past local heat events have been than the current forecast.
Triple-Digit Heat Returns Tuesday
Sunday should reach 98 degrees, followed by a mostly sunny Labor Day with a high near 97. Tuesday's forecast high is described as ranging from the upper 80s to upper 90s, while Wednesday remains close behind at 94.
Rain chances are near zero through Friday and only a few percentage points Saturday. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms appears Wednesday after 7 a.m., when the high is forecast near 94 degrees.
Take The Heat Warning Seriously
Residents should drink plenty of fluids, stay in air conditioning or shade as much as possible, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. The National Weather Service also advises checking on relatives and neighbors, especially older adults and anyone who may be especially vulnerable to heat illness. According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, extreme heat events can increase both deaths and nonfatal health problems.
