St. Louis, Missouri – An oppressive dome of heat continues to smother eastern Missouri and southwestern Illinois, with heat index values expected to hit 110 degrees through 7 p.m. Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect for areas including St. Louis, Jefferson City, Columbia, and the Metro East region. The combination of high humidity and triple-digit temperatures dramatically increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
In St. Louis and surrounding counties—like Franklin, Jefferson, and St. Charles—outdoor work should be minimized, especially between noon and 6 p.m. Residents are urged to stay in air-conditioned spaces, drink water regularly, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Those in Belleville, Alton, and Edwardsville can call 2-1-1 or 800-427-4626 for cooling center information, while St. Louis residents may also contact Cool Down St. Louis at 314-241-7668.
Emergency officials across Boone, Washington, and Sainte Genevieve counties stress caution for road crews, postal workers, and outdoor laborers. OSHA recommends frequent breaks and shaded recovery periods for anyone working outside.
The heat wave will persist through midweek, with potential for additional advisories if conditions worsen.
