National Weather Service Updates Heat Alert Terminology

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - The National Weather Service is making changes to how it communicates heat-related dangers to the public, just as dangerously hot conditions begin to move into the Parkland.

Starting this summer, the NWS is replacing the term “Excessive Heat Watch” with the new “Extreme Heat Watch,” part of a broader initiative to simplify weather alerts nationwide. The goal is to make weather warnings clearer and easier to understand, particularly during extreme heat events. "Extreme Heat Warning" replaced the old name "Excessive Heat Warning" and "Heat Advisory" did not change its name.

The Parkland is preparing for a stretch of hot and humid weather. Heat index values are expected to reach or slightly exceed 100 degrees across St. Francois, Washington, Ste. Genevieve, Iron, Madison, and Jefferson counties as the weekend progresses.

Residents are urged to take precautions, stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and check on elderly neighbors or those without access to air conditioning.

The National Weather Service says it will issue "Heat Advisories" and "Extreme Heat Warnings" when thresholds are met, but encourages people to take all alerts seriously.