Heat, humidity raise heat stress across forecast area through late this week

Forecasters say heat and humidity will produce higher heat stress across the forecast area through late this week.

Daily peak heat index values of 105 to 110 are expected mainly along and west of Interstate 55, with values near 105 for areas to the east of I-55, forecasters said. They warned that heat exhaustion is likely with prolonged outdoor activity during the expected long-duration period of heat danger.

The heat index combines air temperature and humidity to estimate how hot it feels to the human body and is used by health and weather professionals to assess heat-related risk.

Prolonged exposure to high heat index values can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions and outdoor workers. Public health experts generally advise limiting strenuous outdoor activity, taking frequent breaks, staying hydrated and seeking air-conditioned locations when possible.

We will provide more information as it becomes available.