With dangerous heat expected to grip the region through Thursday, the City of St. Louis Department of Health is urging residents to take steps to stay safe. The National Weather Service is forecasting heat index values between 100 and 110 degrees each afternoon — with overnight lows stuck in the mid‑70s or higher, offering little relief.
For many St. Louisans, especially older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions and those who work outdoors, prolonged heat and humidity can quickly escalate into a medical emergency.
“We know that urban areas tend to be heat islands, and we need residents to be as proactive as possible during this period of extreme temperatures,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Health. “Finding a cool environment, staying hydrated, and staying informed is essential during extreme heat.”
Emergency Management Commissioner Gregg Favre said the responsibility extends to anyone overseeing outdoor workers, summer camps or youth programs.
“If you’re responsible for outdoor workers, summer campers, or anyone who can’t easily get to air conditioning, make sure they have shade, water, and regular breaks,” Favre said. “Heat illness can escalate fast. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear before taking action.”
Checking on vulnerable neighbors
City officials are asking residents to check frequently on family, friends and neighbors who may be at higher risk — including seniors, people with disabilities, infants, and anyone without a functioning air conditioner.
Pets are also vulnerable.
“Please remember that pets can also suffer from dehydration, heat illness, and burns,” Khan said. “Ensure they have access to shade and water. If you see an animal in distress, please don’t hesitate to notify Animal Care and Control.”
How to stay safe during extreme heat
Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun.
- Keep plenty of fluids on hand and stay inside, or take frequent breaks in air‑conditioning.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
- Wear lightweight, loose‑fitting clothing.
- Never leave children unattended in a vehicle — temperatures can become lethal within minutes.
- Routinely check on elderly or chronically ill neighbors and encourage them to use air‑conditioning.
- Replace salt and minerals lost through heavy sweating; sports drinks can help, but those with chronic conditions should consult a doctor first.
Cooling resources available
Several organizations are offering assistance to help residents stay safe:
- CoolDownStLouis.org is helping area seniors and people with physical disabilities who qualify for new air‑conditioning units and utility assistance. Seniors may call 314‑241‑0001 or 314‑657‑1599.
- For cooling site information, visit the City’s Cooling Centers website or contact the United Way’s referral line at 1‑800‑427‑4626 or 2‑1‑1 from a landline.
- For mobile outreach, call St. Patrick’s Center at 314‑561‑0278.
- For serious heat‑related illness, call 911 immediately.
- Report animals in distress to Animal Care and Control at 314‑657‑1500 during business hours or 314‑231‑1212 after hours.
- Additional safety tips are available through Safe Kids Worldwide and the CDC.
Protecting pets in extreme heat
Animal Care and Control reminds residents that pets need protection too:
- Keep pets in air‑conditioned environments.
- Never leave pets alone in a vehicle.
- Watch for coolant leaks — even small amounts can be fatal.
- Limit exercise to early morning or evening hours.
- Avoid asphalt, which can burn paws.