ST. LOUIS — It's been a pretty average month of August so far, statistically speaking. Temperatures in the 90s and 100s have been few and far between recently. We've even gotten an early taste of fall in some parts, with temperatures falling into the 40s for a couple of nights. That is in the rearview (for now).
It all has to do with this ridge of high pressure continues around our area this week and it will move into the southeast part of the United States by Friday. As our temperatures peek Tuesday, this heat and humidity stays with us through Thursday and now into Friday ahead of a cold front.
Heat and humidity have been a problem all week in St. Louis. It's been quite uncomfortable and a bit dangerous to be outside during periods of the afternoon.
Tuesday, St. Louis hit 102 and tied the record high for Aug. 27. It was also the second-hottest day of the year so far. Wednesday's high was 95 with the heat index above 100. Thursday's high temperature was 98 before a thunderstorm bubbled up near the airport and cooled temperatures off a touch. Friday will be another hot day.
Thursday was another hot day with highs in the mid and upper 90s. While Friday will be a touch cooler with highs in the lower 90s, the heat index will still climb to around 100 in the metro area.
The heat advisory is now extended into Friday.
Hot afternoons with high humidity will make certain periods into Friday afternoons a bit more dangerous to be outside.
Check on friends and neighbors without AC, take care of pets and make sure you take frequent breaks as you stay hydrated. This will be a brief couple of days with excessive heat before we return to more normal summer temperatures.
