Multiple National Weather Service (NWS) offices have issued Heat Advisories for Monday (7/20) and Tuesday (7/21). The hottest day of the week—and the hottest day of the summer so far—is expected to be Tuesday, when temperatures are forecast to climb above 100° at multiple locations. In Joplin, the forecast high temperature for Tuesday is expected to be in the lower 100s. The heat index (how hot it feels when temperature and humidity are combined) is expected to range from 100° to 115° across the entire Ozarks region on Monday and Tuesday. There will still be chances for pop-up showers and perhaps an isolated thunderstorm over the next few days, but most areas are expected to remain dry. A weak cold front is forecast to move through the Ozarks region beginning Tuesday night, bringing some minor and brief temperature relief behind it. Related Heat Advisory wording from the NWS, heat-related illnesses are possible, especially impacting those who are not acclimated to the conditions or those performing strenuous activities. Take extra precautions when outside. When outdoors, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours. When outdoors, drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room if possible, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors. Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
