Springfield to see triple digit temperatures Wednesday; local pools, cooling centers open

Kelly Dereuck, Springfield News-Leader
·4 min read
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Springfield is in for some heat this week, as temperatures are projected to reach triple digits.

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory from noon to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, warning that elevated temperatures create conditions for heat-related illness to occur.

Meteorologist Shelby Melto said that temperatures are expected to reach 100 degrees on Wednesday. But, the heat index will cause it to feel like it is between 105 and 110 degrees in some areas.

However, the Springfield area could also see some thunderstorms tomorrow, bringing elevated humidity levels.

“(The humidity) is going to lead to those higher heat index values,” Melto said. “So, it's definitely going to be a hot midweek for you.”

The last time temperatures in Springfield reached triple digits was Aug. 3, 2022, with a recorded high of 101 degrees.

More: The last time we hit 100 degrees? Hard to believe it was that long ago

Cooling centers open, pool extends hours to beat the heat

During a heat advisory, the Springfield-Greene County Park Board extends the operating hours of at least one outdoor pool to help residents cool off.

On Wednesday, the Fassnight Pool, 1305 S. Main Ave., will be open until 8 p.m.

Outdoor pool admission is $4/Youth and Seniors, $5/Adults, 1-5:30 p.m. With a canned food donation, admission to all locations is discounted to $1 or free from 5:30-6:30 p.m., and that discount rate is also extended to closing time when pools are open late. Food donations benefit Ozarks Food Harvest.

Ozarks Stream and Fountain at Jordan Valley Park, 635 E. Trafficway, also welcomes the public to cool down in the water. Admission is free, and fountains run daily from 10 a.m.- 9 p.m., with fountain shows every hour on the hour, and a longer show from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Public cooling centers are also available during heat advisories, including all three Springfield-Greene County Park Board Family Centers, as well as Jordan Valley Ice Park. All lobbies have seating, restroom access and air conditioning, but no formal programming is planned.

Due to a lack of air conditioning, the Springfield Skate Park has altered its operating hours for Wednesday. It will now be open from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

More: 'Excessive heat' expected in Springfield, with temperatures rising above 100 degrees

Heat-related illnesses and how to spot them

There are a few heat-related illnesses to be aware of, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Heat cramps are generally the first sign, followed by heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat cramps are heavy sweating accompanied by painful cramps in the legs or abdomen. These are treated by applying pressure to or massaging sore muscles, as well as drinking fluids, unless the person complains of nausea.

According to the CDC, signs of heat exhaustion include:

  • Heavy sweating

  • Weakness or tiredness

  • Cool, pale, clammy skin

  • Fast, weak pulse

  • Muscle cramps

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Headache

  • Fainting

If someone is exhibiting these symptoms, they should be removed from the heat and relocated to a cooler, air-conditioned location. If the person vomits or symptoms worsen after one hour, contact medical emergency services.

More: This weekend may be the worst heatwave in Springfield in more than 120 years

The CDC says that symptoms of heat stroke include:

  • Throbbing headache

  • Confusion

  • Nausea

  • Dizziness

  • Body temperature above 103°F

  • Hot, red, dry or damp skin

  • Rapid and strong pulse

  • Fainting

  • Loss of consciousness

Health officials recommend calling 911 if a person is exhibiting these symptoms. Additionally, the person should not drink any fluids, but can use cool cloths or a bath to reduce body temperature. Heat stroke is a serious emergency that requires medical attention.

The National Weather Service has identified several populations that may be more susceptible to heat than others. These include young children, pregnant women, older adults and those with chronic medical conditions.

Additionally, NWS recommends taking necessary precautions to stay safe in extreme heat. Never leave children or pets in vehicles, as temperatures are much higher than outside.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: springfield weather heat advisory temperature pools cooling center