Excessive heat warning in effect until 8 PM Sunday

From the National Weather Service in St. Louis: The following counties are under this excessive heat warning until 8 PM Sunday: Adams, Bond, Brown, Calhoun, Clinton, Fayette, Greene, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery, Pike, Randolph, St. Clair and Washington. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-to-upper 90s throughout the weekend with heat indices up to 110 and dew points in the mid-70s. Dangerously high temperatures and humidity could quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke if precautions are not taken, especially regarding young infants and children, the elderly, those without air conditioning and participants in strenuous outdoor activities. Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures and high humidity will occur. In addition, nighttime conditions will remain warm and muggy providing little chance for relief. This combination will create a dangerous situation in which heat-related illnesses are likely, especially for those living in un-air-conditioned homes or apartments. People in the Warning area are advised to avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun. Use air conditioning in your house or apartment if it is working correctly. If you do not have air conditioning, keep your house or apartment well ventilated with fans, and try to spend some time in an air-conditioned environment to give your body a break from the heat. People in the Saint Louis Metropolitan Area can get information about cooling centers or energy assistance related to the excessive heat by calling the United Way of Greater Saint Louis at 800-427-4626, or if calling from a landline phone dial 2-1-1. You can also call Cool Down Saint Louis at 314-241-7668 or a local charity that can assist you.