The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning in effect for Wyandotte County until 8 p.m. Saturday.
Temperatures could reach 98 today, with a heat index as high as 107, according to the weather service. There is relief in sight, with rain in the forecast for Sunday morning.
The weather service said dangerously high temperatures and humidity today could quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke if precautions are not taken. The very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning and those participating in strenuous outdoor activities will be the most susceptible, according to the weather service.
Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes, the weather service said. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles. Always check the back seat before exiting the vehicle.
Heat illnesses are likely. Residents are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors, according to the weather service.
Cooling centers are available, and include local libraries, YMCAs, Salvation Army locations and recreation buildings.
For a list of cooling centers open today in Wyandotte County and the hours they are open, visit https://wyandotteonline.com/salvation-army-ymcas-open-cooling-shelters-today/ or https://www.facebook.com/notes/kansas-city-kansas-unified-government/cooling-centers-spray-parks-and-pools/3422385014453781/.
Today, it will be sunny and hot, with a high near 98 and heat index as high as 107, the weather service said. A south wind of 14 mph will gust as high as 20 mph.
Tonight, there is a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 a.m., according to the weather service. It will be partly cloudy, with a low of 77 and a south wind of 9 to 11 mph.
Sunday, there is a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10 a.m., the weather service said. The high will be near 90 with a heat index as high as 96. Between a tenth and quarter-inch of rain is possible.
Sunday night, there is a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, with a low of 67 and a northeast wind of 6 mph, according to the weather service. Between a quarter and half-inch of rain is possible.
Monday, it will be mostly cloudy, then sunny, with a high near 81 and a north northeast wind of 6 to 9 mph, the weather service said.
Monday night, it will be mostly clear, with a low of 61, according to the weather service.