HEAT INDEX SOARS; ADVISORY IS ISSUED FOR AREA

Combined with the heat and humidity, temperatures felt like 105 to 110 degrees Tuesday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a heat advisory at least through Thursday.

If it doesn't cool off, the heat advisory likely will continue through the weekend, said David Humphrey of the National Weather Service.

A heat advisory is issued when a combination of high temperatures and humidity causes the heat index to exceed 105 degrees.

Adding to the danger is the fact that low temperatures are predicted to stay in the mid-to-upper 70s, Humphrey said.

"We don't look for any relief other than your isolated late-afternoon thunderstorm," Humphrey said.

Southeast Missouri isn't sweltering alone.

"The entire St. Louis area and central Illinois, really much of the Midwest and Midsouth are mired under this high-pressure area," he explained.

If the high pressure stays in place, Humphrey predicts the weather will remain hot and humid.

The forecast calls for highs in the mid 90s and lows in the upper 70s, with afternoon heat indexes reaching 105 to 110 degrees.

Because of the heat advisory, the local American Red Cross is in the process of opening heat shelters at the Osage Centre in Cape Girardeau and New McKendree Church in Jackson.