Springfield, Missouri – Drivers, outdoor workers, and families across Missouri are facing consecutive days of dangerous heat, with little nighttime relief expected through Thursday evening. Heat index values are expected to climb between 100 and 105°F, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration across the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Springfield, a Heat Advisory remains in effect for the entire area until 7 p.m. Thursday. Officials warn that although actual air temperatures may not reach excessive highs, the combination of prolonged high humidity, persistent heat, and overnight lows staying in the 70s will keep stress on residents, especially in urban centers like Springfield, Joplin, and Rolla.
Communities along I-44, including Lebanon and Marshfield, should prepare for the highest heat index values, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. Local emergency management agencies are urging residents to check on elderly neighbors, limit outdoor activities, and drink plenty of water. Utilities may see increased demand as households try to keep cool, while road crews and public works are monitoring infrastructure for heat-related issues.
Heat-related illnesses are a real risk in this kind of prolonged event, so residents should never leave children or pets in vehicles, seek air-conditioned shelter, and take extra care with outdoor plans. The extended stretch of hot, muggy nights is unusual for July, creating conditions similar to the historic 2021 heatwave.
Warnings remain in effect through Thursday evening, with additional advisories possible if heat continues. Stay tuned for local updates and take action to stay safe.
Five Day Weather Outlook for Southwest Missouri:
- Tuesday: Highs 95–99°F, heat index up to 105°F, lows 72–75°F, mostly clear, little relief at night.
- Wednesday: Highs 97°F, heat index 103–105°F, lows 73–75°F, mostly sunny, continued humidity.
- Thursday: Highs 96°F, heat index 101–104°F, lows 72–75°F, partly cloudy, slight chance of evening storms.
- Friday: Highs 94°F, heat index near 100°F, lows 72°F, slight drop in humidity, clearing skies.
- Saturday: Highs 91°F, heat index in upper 90s, lows 69°F, partly sunny, chance of scattered thunderstorms.
