Extreme heat warning extended through Thursday

The National Weather Service has locked in an extreme heat warning for the next four days for westernmost Kentucky, most of southern Illinois, almost the entire state of Missouri and parts of four other states.

Dangerously hot conditions that spurred the same warning here on Saturday and Sunday will continue through at least Thursday, with daily peak heat index values up to 110 in the warned areas.

East of the extreme heat warning, the rest of the region is under a heat advisory with peak heat indices up to 105.

Meteorologists said that even after Thursday, the extreme heat won't be in a hurry to move out, and more warnings could last into the weekend, especially in southeast Missouri.

Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events. Please be cautious, especially during prolonged time outdoors. Check on children, neighbors and co-workers that they are also taking precautions to avoid exposure to heat dangers.

Livestock and pets will also need extra water, shade and other protections this week.