UPDATED 7:45 a.m. Wednesday with new temperature map.
Excessive heat warnings have been issued for a large part of the state, including our area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning that will be in effect from 1 p.m. Wednesday to 7 p.m. Saturday for the following counties in our area.
- Ellsworth County
- Lincoln County
- Marion County
- McPherson County
- Saline County
Heat index values of up to 105 to 108 due to afternoon temperatures from the upper 90s in southeast Kansas and 100 to near 105 in south central and central Kansas thru Friday. Dewpoints will range from the mid 60s to mid 70s.
NWS also has issued an excessive heat warning for 1 p.m. Wednesday to 8 p.m. Saturday for the following area counties.
- Clay County
- Cloud County
- Dickinson County
- Ottawa County
- Republic County
Expected high temperatures in the middle 90s to around 100 degrees will combine with humid conditions to bring afternoon heat indices into the 103 to 110 degree range.
Additionally, NWS has issued an excessive heat warning for 1 p.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Friday for the following counties in the area.
- Jewell County
- Mitchell County
Afternoon heat index values are expected to reach 100 to 110 degrees Wednesday through Friday. The highest values are expected to occur across north central Kansas and generally along and east of Highway 281 in south central Nebraska.
Daily high temperatures will range from 93 to 105 degrees. Overnight lows may only fall into the mid to upper 70s for portions of the area.
An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot weather is expected, during which heat illnesses are likely. Postpone any non-essential outdoor activities during the midday and afternoon. Stay in an air-conditioned building and check up on relatives and neighbors. If you must venture outside, drink plenty of water, wear light and loose fitting clothing, and reduce strenuous activities. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.