KANSAS CITY, Mo. — During the summer months families often spend hours at city parks, playgrounds and pools, but on Thursday they will need to seek cooler activities indoors.
The hottest day of the year is possible with temperatures approaching 100 degrees, feeling like 110 degrees. That’s warm enough to call for an Excessive Heat Warning for the entire Kansas City metro area beginning at noon.
An Excessive Heat Warning goes into effect tomorrow at noon for #KC and the surrounding areas. For info on locations & hours of cooling centers, contact @UnitedWayGKC 2-1-1 #BeatTheHeatKC pic.twitter.com/n7W4XzRjYD
— NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) June 27, 2018
According to the National Weather Service, 104 people died last year because of the heat. Over the last three decades, heat caused the most weather-related deaths — more than hurricanes, tornadoes and floods.
On Wednesday, the Kansas City Health Department reported the first suspected heat-related death in Kansas City. The woman has not yet been identified.
The Jackson County Medical Examiner has informed KCHD of a suspected heat-related death investigation that has been opened for a female born in 1972. No other information is available at this time.
— KCMO Health Dept (@KCMOHealthDept) June 27, 2018
Given the dangers that come with the heat, be sure to check on friends, family and neighbors throughout the day Thursday. Also, wear light, loose-fitted clothing and don't wait until you're thirsty to drink water. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people working outside should drink eight ounces of water every 15 to 20 minutes. Doing so will help avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.
The CDC said the best thing to do on hot days to protect yourself from heat-related illnesses is to stay in air-conditioned areas.
From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., the Salvation Army and KCP&L plan to hand out free fans to people who need help keeping cool. They will give out the 600 fans at the corner of 18th and Paseo in Kansas City, Missouri.
@KCPLConnect and @SalArmyMoKan are handing out 600 fans for free at 18th and Paseo. First come, first serve basis! They’ll be here until 11 or until they run out! ☀️🌡@41actionnews pic.twitter.com/BgTxPX329O
— McKenzie Nelson (@McKenzieMNelson) June 28, 2018
For today’s full forecast, click here.
Know the symptoms and treatments of heat-related illnesses:
