Heat Advisories in effect across central U.S., heat index values up to 42°C (108°F) forecast

(stillshot) Heat Advisories remain in effect across a large part of the central United States on June 9, as hot temperatures and high humidity push heat index values as high as 42°C (108°F), according to multiple National Weather Service (NWS) offices. The highest heat index values are forecast across parts of eastern Arkansas, northern Mississippi, southeastern Missouri, and western Tennessee. The NWS office in Memphis forecasts heat index values up to 42°C (108°F), with the advisory in effect from CDT to CDT on June 9. Forecasters warned that prolonged exposure to the heat may cause heat-related illnesses. In Missouri and southeastern Kansas, the NWS office in Springfield has issued a Heat Advisory from CDT on June 9 until CDT on June 10. Heat index values of 38 to 41°C (100 to 105°F) are forecast across multiple cities, including Springfield, Joplin, Branson, Rolla, West Plains, and Fort Leonard Wood. Across central, east-central, north-central, and northeastern Kansas, the NWS office in Topeka forecasts heat index values up to 42°C (107°F). The advisory remains in effect from noon until CDT on June 9. Areas affected include Topeka, Manhattan, Lawrence, Emporia, and Junction City. Farther north, portions of southeastern South Dakota, northeastern Nebraska, and northwestern Iowa are under a Heat Advisory from CDT to CDT. The NWS office in Sioux Falls expects heat index values up to 41°C (105°F), with the hottest conditions forecast south of Highway 18. Additional Heat Advisories are in effect for parts of Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. In northern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin, heat index values are forecast to reach about 33°C (91°F), which is high enough to create dangerous conditions for people sensitive to heat. The advisories cover the hottest part of the day, when the combination of temperature and humidity places additional stress on the body. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke become more likely during prolonged outdoor activity, especially for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and people without access to air conditioning. The National Weather Service advises residents in affected areas to drink plenty of water, limit time outdoors during peak heat, stay in air-conditioned buildings when possible, and check on relatives, neighbors, and other vulnerable individuals. Citizens have also been warned not to leave children or pets unattended in vehicles, where temperatures can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. References: 1 Heat Advisory – NWS – June 9, 2026 Rishav Kothari I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis.