The City of St. Louis Under Extreme Heat Warning, Residents Urged to Take Precautions
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the City of St. Louis, in effect until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30. The warning comes as dangerously hot conditions are expected to continue, with heat index values reaching up to 113 degrees. While there may be some relief on Friday, residents are being warned that another round of dangerous heat could develop over the weekend and into next week.
Victoria Anwuri, Commissioner for the City of St. Louis Department of Health, stresses the importance of taking precautions during this extended heat warning. She says, “Excessive heat takes a serious toll, especially on those without reliable access to cooling, including seniors, children, individuals with chronic health conditions, and people working outdoors. Even just a few hours per day indoors with air conditioning can help the body recover from excess heat exposure.”
Without proper precautions, the predicted high temperatures and humidity could quickly lead to heat stress or heat stroke. Signs of heat-related illness include heavy sweating, weakness or dizziness, nausea or vomiting, headache, and cold, pale, or clammy skin. In more severe cases, heat stroke can occur, with symptoms such as high body temperature, hot and dry skin, confusion, fainting, and a rapid pulse.
Interim Commissioner for the City Emergency Management Agency, Capt. John Walk, emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, saying, “The extreme heat will remain a serious concern for the coming days and potentially into early next week. Residents and visitors are highly encouraged to utilize cooling methods, including running their air conditioners when possible and using area cooling centers to avoid the hottest parts of the day to prevent heat illnesses.”
Director of the Department of Human Services, Adam Pearson, also reminds residents to keep an eye out for their unhoused neighbors, who are especially vulnerable during extreme temperatures. He says, “Information continues to be shared with the unhoused about libraries and other indoor sites in the community, where individuals are welcome to sit to cool off.”
Heat-Related Health and Safety Tips for Residents
- Avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun
- Keep plenty of fluids on hand and stay inside, or take frequent breaks in an air-conditioned environment
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle. Check the backseat before exiting. During extreme heat, vehicle temperatures can reach lethal levels in minutes
- Routinely check on family members, neighbors, the elderly, the chronically ill, and friends. If they have air conditioning available, encourage them to use it
