Dangerously high heat values are widespread throughout the Ozarks and began over the weekend. This trend is expected to continue until sometime this weekend. Yesterday, heat index values evaluated the temperature to be roughly 115 degrees in some areas, though some days this week are expected to be even worse.
As we go through this excessively hot period, remember to keep in mind heat-related health safety tips such as staying hydrated, dressing light, avoiding sunlight, and opting out of using heat-generating appliances.
One aspect of heat safety that often goes overlooked is our pets and livestock. Keep in mind that even though many animals are more acclimated to being outside, they are still subject to the potential damage such extreme temperatures can have. Cats and dogs may have somewhat tough paw pads, but this does not mitigate the fact that hot asphalt can do a number on them.
Cows, sheep, goats, and otherwise may need to have ample shade and potentially a source of water or fans to keep cool when the weather blows through. Don’t let your cherished pets or valuable livestock come to harm.
Lastly, make sure to check on friends and neighbors as we go through this heat wave, as those without air conditioners or people to communicate to for help may be vulnerable at this time. If you are one of these individuals, please make a note of cooling centers which may be located in the town nearest to you. Below is a list of cooling centers in the area.
West Plains
- West Plains Civic Center
- West Plains Public Library
- West Plains Senior Center
Willow Springs
- Willow Springs Senior Center
- Contact the Willow Springs City Hall at 417-469-2107
Mountain View
- Mountain View City Hall
Alton
- Alton Multipurpose Senior Center
Ava
- Douglas County Public Library
Eminence
- Shannon County Health Center
Gainesville
- Ozark County Senior Center
Hartville
- Wright County Library
Houston
- Houston Senior Center
- Texas County Health Department
Licking
- Licking Branch Library
- Licking Bridge Builders
Mountain Grove
- Mountain Grove Senior Center
- Mountain Grove Library
- Ozarks Family YMCA
Myrtle
- Myrtle Public Library
Summersville
- Summersville Senior Center
Thayer
- Thayer Fun & Friends Senior Center
Winona
- Winona Senior Center
An interactive map of all cooling centers in the state of Missouri can be found here: https://data.mo.gov/Health/Missouri-Cooling-Centers-Map/2wki-9iz8
