St. Louis, Missouri – Scorching summer heat will grip the Missouri-Illinois border this week, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s by Thursday and storm chances threatening July 4th weekend plans.
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, daily highs will rise steadily through midweek, peaking at 94°F by Independence Day. Skies will stay sunny and winds calm through Thursday, creating dangerous heat conditions for anyone spending extended time outdoors. Travelers along I-55 and I-64 should prepare for high pavement temperatures and slower traffic during peak daylight hours.
The heat will intensify across the St. Louis metro, including East St. Louis, Brooklyn, Belleville, and Collinsville. Light winds offer little relief. The NWS urges residents to stay hydrated, check on vulnerable neighbors, and avoid outdoor work during the hottest hours, typically between 1 and 5 p.m.
By Saturday, a 40% chance of afternoon thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor gatherings. Rain chances remain through Sunday, especially late in the day. While not a washout, the shift from dry to unstable air could create isolated downpours and brief lightning risks. Keep an eye on forecasts if planning fireworks, cookouts, or travel across the region.
Five-Day Forecast for St. Louis Metro (July 2–6):
- Wednesday (July 2): Sunny, high 89°F. Calm winds shifting northwest.
- Thursday (July 3): Sunny, high 92°F. Mostly clear overnight, low 73°F.
- Friday (July 4 – Independence Day): Sunny, high 94°F. Hot and dry.
- Saturday (July 5): 20–40% chance of p.m. thunderstorms. High near 95°F.
- Sunday (July 6): 40% storm chance. Partly sunny, high near 94°F.