The hottest temperatures of the year are possible later this week, according to the National Weather Service forecast.
On Tuesday, the high may reach 101 with a heat index as high as 104, the weather service said.
High temperatures will continue Thursday through Sunday, according to the forecast, with the heat index over 100.
The high risk for excessive heat late this week and early next week will see temperatures approaching 100 and a heat index of 105 and more, the weather service said.
The excessive heat risk, combined with dry conditions, also could lead to rapid development of drought conditions for portions of eastern Kansas and west central Missouri, according to the weather service.
Today’s high will be near 92, with a heat index a few degrees higher, the weather service said. Tuesday’s high could be 101 with a heat index of 104.
The Mid-America Regional Council has issued an air quality alert for Monday, July 18. Outdoor air quality index values in excess of 100 are expected Monday, with ozone the main pollutant.
People and businesses are urged to avoid activities that lead to ozone formation. These activities include refueling vehicles, topping off when refueling, idling vehicles unnecessarily and using gasoline-powered lawn equipment.
MARC encourages car pooling, biking to work, delaying or combining errands and using water-based paints and cleaners.
When pollution levels are elevated, MARC 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.
With the hot weather forecast for the next week, residents are advised to drink plenty of water and stay in air-conditioning when possible.
Today, it will be sunny, with a high near 92 and a light north northeast wind, the weather service said.
Tonight, it will be clear, with a low of 71. A light and variable wind will become southeast around 6 mph in the evening, according to the weather service.
Tuesday, it will be sunny and hot, with a high near 101, the weather service said. The heat index will be as high as 104, with a south wind of 7 to 10 mph.
Tuesday night, it will be mostly clear, with a low of 72, according to the weather service. A south southwest wind of 5 to 8 mph will become calm in the evening.
Wednesday, it will be sunny, with a high near 94, the weather service said. A light north northwest wind will increase to 6 to 11 mph in the morning. Winds may gust as high as 20 mph.
Wednesday night, it will be clear with a low of 68, according to the weather service.
Thursday, it will be sunny and hot, with a high near 99, the weather service said.
Thursday night, it will be sunny and hot, with a high near 99, according to the weather service.
Friday, it will be mostly sunny, with a high near 96, the weather service said.
Friday night, it will be mostly clear, with a low of 75, according to the weather service.
Saturday, it will be sunny and hot, with a high near 101, the weather service said.
Saturday night, it will be partly cloudy, with a low of 78, according to the weather service.
Sunday, it will be mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99, the weather service said.