The South Braces For A Hot Start to August | WeatherBug
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The South Braces For A Hot Start to August

August 1, 2021
UPDATED By WeatherBug Meteorologists
The South will continue to be warped by hot, humid temperatures as August begins.

A dome of high pressure over the Gulf Coast will yield hot, humid weather in an area that has largely avoided the heat this summer. High temperatures soared into the mid-90s across the Southeast to close out the work week, while the Lower Mississippi Valley and central Plains reached the century mark. Today has been no different as temperatures soared into the triple digtis, some 10 degrees above normal.

As the weekend rolls on, widespread upper 90s to lower triple digits are expected from the southern Plains to South Carolina. When factoring in the humidity, heat indices from 105 to 115 degrees are expected, making strenuous outdoor activity dangerous.

Heat Advisories stretch from Kansas along the Deep South to the Carolina coast, with Excessive Heat Warnings currently active for eastern Kansas and western Missouri, the lower Mississippi Valley and the Florida Panhandle, as well as western Oregon and Washington. Cities under these warnings include Topeka, Kan., New Orleans, Tallahassee, Fla and Spokane, Wash.

Unfortunately, overnight lows won’t offer much relief as temperatures will only dip into the mid 70s to near 80 degrees, elevating the threat for heat-related illnesses.

The first week of August looks to ring relief to the heat as a potent cold front moves through the Deep South. This will usher in cooler air, dropping high temperatures to the lower 90s even 80s by the start of the work week.

When dangerous heat is on the rise, it’s important to stay hydrated and limited your exposure. This is especially true for children, elderly and pets as they are more susceptible to heat illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Drink plenty of fluids and if you are travelling, make sure you check the backseat before you lock!