Tracking a very hot and sunny Tuesday

September is starting on a hot note across Northwest Missouri, with temperatures expected to remain well above normal through the first week of the month.

Tuesday morning is getting off to a warm start, with temperatures in the middle to upper 70s under mostly clear skies. Southwest winds are still producing occasional gusts in the low to middle teens, but winds have eased somewhat compared with Monday.

Sunny skies will help temperatures climb quickly Tuesday. Highs are expected to reach around 97 degrees, with heat index values rising into the triple digits during the afternoon and evening.

A Heat Advisory remains in effect through Friday evening as dangerous heat continues. The National Weather Service expects highs to remain in the mid to upper 90s through the week, with some locations potentially reaching 100 degrees. Increasing humidity will push heat index values to between 100 and 105 degrees, with the greatest potential for readings near 105 degrees Friday, particularly south of Interstate 70.

Little relief is expected overnight, with temperatures only falling into the low to upper 70s. The combination of hot afternoons and warm nights will keep conditions oppressive through the workweek.

Some improvement is possible this weekend as the upper-level ridge shifts westward toward the Great Plains. Northern Missouri could see slightly cooler temperatures and a chance for showers and thunderstorms as disturbances move along the eastern edge of the ridge.

Even with the weekend improvement, temperatures are expected to remain above seasonal averages, with highs generally in the low 90s.

Residents should continue taking precautions during the heat, including staying hydrated, taking frequent breaks and seeking shade or air conditioning when possible.