St. Louis, Missouri, is facing oppressive heat and storm chances that could impact Fourth of July celebrations and weekend plans. The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures reaching 95°F on Independence Day, with calm winds and clear skies. These sweltering conditions, combined with high humidity, will create an increased risk of heat exhaustion. As the temperatures climb, it’s crucial to take precautions, especially if you’re planning to be outdoors.
Heatwave and Humidity on July 4th and 5th
Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, check on elderly neighbors, and keep pets indoors to avoid heat-related illnesses. Saturday is expected to be even hotter, with temperatures topping out near 96°F. These conditions will be ideal for heat exhaustion, so staying hydrated and taking regular breaks in the shade will be important. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather if you’re planning outdoor activities during these extremely hot days.
Storms on the Horizon for the Weekend
Relief from the heat arrives on Sunday, but it comes with a chance of thunderstorms. Starting in the afternoon, there is a 30% chance of storms, which could bring heavy downpours through Monday. The rain chances increase to 50% on Monday, and scattered storms will continue into Tuesday with a 40% chance of rain. The storms could lead to brief delays on major highways such as I-64 and I-55, particularly due to slick roads or lightning.
Travelers should plan to adjust their schedules to earlier in the day and stay alert to changing conditions. While the storms are expected to be scattered, isolated gusty winds and downpours are possible, so keep a weather radio or weather alerts enabled on your phone.
Five-Day Forecast for St. Louis, MO (July 4–9)
Friday (July 4): Mostly clear overnight, low near 74°F.
Saturday (July 5): High near 96°F, partly cloudy overnight, low near 77°F.
Sunday (July 6): 30% chance of afternoon storms, high near 94°F, 30% storm chance overnight, low near 74°F.
Monday (July 7): 50% chance of storms, high near 91°F, 20% storm chance overnight, low near 72°F.
Tuesday (July 8): 40% chance of storms, high near 91°F, 30% chance of storms overnight, low near 72°F.
Preparing for the Weekend Weather
With high heat expected to dominate the Fourth of July, it’s important to stay cool and hydrated, especially if you plan to be outdoors for long periods. The potential for thunderstorms will complicate outdoor activities starting Sunday, so be sure to keep an eye on the forecast for sudden changes in weather. If you’re planning to travel, adjusting your plans to avoid peak storm times could help avoid any disruptions.