High heat to persist in the south-central US for the 1st week of June

faith.eherts
Updated

Residents and tourists over the south-central United States will continue to face dangerously hot weather through the first week of June.

Temperatures have been soaring to levels above the century mark across southern and western Texas since last Friday, May 25. In Lubbock and Amarillo, Texas, where average high temperatures are in the mid-80s Fahrenheit this time of year, afternoon temperatures have been consistently running 10-15 degrees above normal.

"Much of the region challenged record highs at the end of this week, with widespread 90s in much of Kansas and Missouri and 100s found in much of Texas," said AccuWeather Meteorologist Ryan Adamson.

static south heat 6/1
static south heat 6/1

While Adamson pointed out that some heat relief is in store for Kansas and Oklahoma this weekend, "no relief is in sight for Texas, where temperatures in the 90s and 100s will continue to be common in western and central portions of the state."

As high pressure builds back into the central United States at the end of the weekend, clear, calm and increasingly warm weather will build in the Plains as well.

"By late next week, the high pressure will strengthen further, and very hot air will again come northward," Adamson warned.

static next week pattern 6/1
static next week pattern 6/1

While 100-degree days are a relatively frequent occurrence during July and August across this part of the country, high heat always poses a health threat, especially to the young and elderly.

It will be important for residents and tourists to avoid exerting themselves outdoors during the middle of the day, when the strong sun and high heat will combine to push AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures toward the 110s.

"In hot weather, it is always important to wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, drink plenty of water and never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle for any length of time," said Adamson.

Construction workers, firefighters and others who need to spend time outdoors should be sure to stay well hydrated, wear protective clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade.

Firefighters working to contain fires across New Mexico will get little help from Mother Nature, with winds expected to turn gusty at times this weekend.

While there are a few chances for precipitation in the forecast, most areas can expect to remain dry over the next several days as well. This will contribute to worsening drought conditions and continue to heighten the already dangerous fire threat.