Extreme Heat Warning Issued for St. Joseph as Heat Index Could Reach 105

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — Dangerous late-summer heat will continue across St. Joseph and Northwest Missouri through the weekend, with forecasters warning that the prolonged stretch of high temperatures could create hazardous conditions.

An Extreme Heat Warning is now in effect through 8 p.m. Saturday, according to KQ2's Storm Tracker weather team. Afternoon temperatures Friday and Saturday are expected to climb into the mid-to-upper 90s, with some locations approaching 100 degrees.

When humidity is factored in, heat index values could reach 105 degrees.

The warning is an escalation from the Heat Advisory that had previously been in place for the area. Forecasters say the duration of the heat, combined with unusually warm overnight temperatures, increases the potential for heat-related illness.

Residents working or spending extended periods outdoors should take extra precautions, including drinking plenty of water, taking frequent breaks and limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.

Sunday and Monday may bring a slight drop in temperatures, particularly north of St. Joseph. However, areas south of the St. Joseph-to-Boonville line could remain in the upper 90s with heat index values around 100 degrees.

Any relief may also be short-lived.

Temperatures are forecast to climb toward 100 again Tuesday, with heat index values potentially returning to around 105. A cold front and thunderstorms could eventually bring cooler conditions later next week, but forecasters say there is still uncertainty about when — or whether — meaningful relief will arrive.

The prolonged heat has already affected activities around the area. Local high school athletic programs have moved some practices indoors and adjusted game times this week because of the conditions.

Residents should continue monitoring weather updates throughout the weekend, particularly anyone without reliable air conditioning and those responsible for children, older adults or pets.

Source: KQ2 Storm Tracker Weather. Latest St. Joseph heat forecast