On September 2, the National Weather Service issued numerous heat advisories across the central United States, the Ohio Valley, and the South. Heat index values of 100°F to 106°F were forecast to affect more than 12 states over the Labor Day weekend, including Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia, North Carolina, Kansas, and Oklahoma.
Areas Affected
In eastern Missouri, including St. Louis, the heat advisory remained in effect until the evening of September 5. In northern Illinois, including Chicago, it remained in effect until the night of September 2. The Indianapolis area was expected to remain hot until the evening of September 3, while the Columbus, Dayton, and Cincinnati areas of Ohio were forecast to see heat continue until early September 4. Advisories were in effect for Nashville, Tennessee, and the Birmingham and Huntsville areas of Alabama until the evening of September 5, and for the Charleston, West Virginia, area until the evening of September 3. Heat index values were forecast to exceed 100°F in most areas.
What RV Travelers Need to Know
For RV camping trips in these areas over the Labor Day weekend, it was best to limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and shift plans to early morning or after sunset. Check in advance that the RV air conditioner and generator capacity can handle continuous operation throughout the day, and use shade canopies or side awnings to help limit indoor heat buildup.
Drink water frequently, and never leave pets or children alone in an enclosed vehicle or RV. Tire pressure can rise in high temperatures during long-distance towing, so check it before and after departure. When stopping, look for shaded parking whenever possible. Local National Weather Service advisories could be extended or canceled as conditions changed, so travelers should check again before setting out.
Data Source: National Weather Service (api.weather.gov)
Photo: NASA Earth Observatory / Lauren Dauphin; GEOS-5 data, NASA GSFC / Original photo. NASA informational/editorial use. Photo date: June 19, 2024.