An Excessive Heat Warning is in effect from noon today until 10 p.m. Thursday and has been expanded to include most of southern and southeastern Illinois and southeastern Missouri.
The National Weather Service in Paducah, KY says high temperatures Monday through Friday are expected to approach, if not reach, 100 degrees each afternoon. No rain is expected during the period, as a strong high pressure system is expected to take hold of the region, suppressing any thunderstorm activity. Heat index values of 105 to 115 degrees are possible each afternoon, according to the weather service. The extreme heat and humidity, with dewpoints into the mid 70s, will significantly increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. Residents are being encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, and check up on neighbors and relatives. Young children and pets should not be left in unattended vehicles under any circumstances. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location and have 911 called.
The weather service says they expect this heat wave to be the worst of the summer in terms of duration. Temperatures are expected to cool a bit by next weekend, according to current forecasts.
The dry weather should keep area rivers well below their flood stages. Here’s the latest levels as of this morning. Little Wabash River east of Fairfield is at 6.37 feet. Flood stage is 17 feet. At Clay City the stage is 4.67 feet. Flood stage is 18 feet. At Carmi the river is at 6.66 feet. Flood stage is 27 feet. The Skillet Fork at Wayne City is at 5.17 feet. Flood stage is 15 feet. The Wabash River at Mt. Carmel is at 4.21 feet. Flood stage is 19 feet.