Scorching Heat Persists Across Kansas with Heat Index Reaching 110 Degrees 8/26

Photo byNational Weather Service

Residents Warned to Take Precautions as Heat Advisory Remains in Effect Until 8 PM Tonight

TOPEKA, KS — Issued by the National Weather Service at 2:53 AM CDT on August 26, 2024.

Heat Advisory in Place for Much of Kansas

The National Weather Service has extended a Heat Advisory for central, east central, north central, and northeast Kansas, effective until 8 PM CDT tonight. The region is facing dangerously high heat index values, which are expected to reach between 105 and 110 degrees.

Cities affected by the advisory include Topeka, Manhattan, Lawrence, Emporia, and Junction City. These extreme temperatures and high humidity levels create a significant risk for heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially heat stroke.

Precautions for Dealing with Extreme Heat

Residents are urged to take the following precautions:

• Stay indoors whenever possible, especially during the hottest part of the day.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours, typically between 11 AM and 4 PM. If outdoor work is necessary, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

If you or anyone around you exhibits symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911.

The NWS also advises against leaving young children and pets unattended in vehicles, as the interiors can quickly reach lethal temperatures, even with the windows cracked.

Outlook for the Week

While today's extreme heat remains a concern, the National Weather Service predicts a lower probability for widespread hazardous weather in the days ahead, from Tuesday through Sunday.

Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated by NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards. Please follow Thumbwind Publications for more local weather and news updates.