Air quality alert in effect today; heat index to be in 90s

Weekend heat indices. (National Weather Service graphic)

The National Weather Service said today’s heat index will be in the 90s, triggering an air quality alert.

Today’s high in Wyandotte County will be about 85, the weather service said. Muggy conditions this weekend will cause heat index values to rise to nearly 100 degrees in some areas, while other areas will still be warm, with heat indices in the mid-90s, according to the weather service.

Thunderstorm chances return to the area Tuesday and Wednesday, the weather service said. Some of these storms could be strong to severe.

The Mid-America Regional Council has issued an air quality alert in effect for Friday, June 9, when ozone is expected to be the primary pollutant.

People and businesses are urged to avoid activities that lead to ozone formation, including refueling vehiles, topping off when refueling, idling vehicles unnecessarily, and using gasoline-powered lawn equipment.

Residents may take positive action such as car pooling, biking to work, delaying or combining errands and using water-based paints and cleaners.

When pollution levels are elevated, the Mid-America Regional Council recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician.

Today’s weather will be sunny with a high near 85 and a sout southwest wind of 5 to 10 mph, the weather service said.

Tonight, it will be mostly clear with a low of 68 and a south wind of 8 to 10 mph, according to the weather service.

Saturday, it will be sunny with a high of 90, the weather service said. It will be breezy with a south wind of 13 to 21 mph, gusting as high as 31 mph.

Saturday night, it will be mostly clear with a low of 72, according to the weather service. A south wind of 14 to 17 mph will gust as high as 29 mph.

Sunday, it will be sunny with a high near 91, the weather service said. It will be breezy, with a south wind of 14 to 21 mph, gusting as high as 30 mph.

Sunday night, it will be mostly clear, with a low of 72, according to the weather service.

Monday, it will be mostly sunny with a high near 91, the weather service said.

Monday night, the low will be around 73 with mostly clear skies.