Our Opinion: Crazy from the heat

Even for Missouri, this is a bit crazy.

On Monday, the high was 92 in Columbia, beating the previous record high set more than 125 years ago. The rest of the week so far hasn't been any better.

What month is this?

So we ask you to keep in mind that, even if you have the ability to stay out of the heat, not everyone does. Look out for your family, friends and neighbors to make sure they're safe.

From 1980-2016, there have been 4,377 cases of hyperthermia reported, including 1,272 deaths caused by Missouri's hot weather and high humidity, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

Cooling stations are available at the Salvation Army Center of Hope, 927 Jefferson St., and Missouri River Regional Library, 214 Adams St.

Library hours are 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday- Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays.

Hours at the Osage County branch, 22 Library Lane, are 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays.

As we recently reported, the Salvation Army also offers cots for people to stay on when overnight temperatures are expected to remain high, but only a few people had taken advantage of the cooling cots.

Vogeler pointed out the climbing temperatures are a good reminder to check air conditioners. The Center of Hope turned its air conditioning on early Tuesday for the first time this year, but it only partially worked. Technicians were to repair the rest Tuesday afternoon.

If you do go out, use caution, especially if you're doing something strenuous. That includes mowing the lawn or exercising. Drink plenty of fluids and take breaks as needed.

The start of summer is not until June 21, more than a month away. However, the Farmer's Almanac is already predicting "sizzling" temperatures for our region.

"No question about it: This summer weather is going to be remembered as a hot one nationwide," the organization said.

So as temperatures climb, watch out for not only yourself but others, too.

News Tribune