Dangerous heat expected in Kansas City Friday, Saturday

Brace yourself, it’s going to be hot few days ... and relief is a ways off.

Dangerous heat will persist throughout the Kansas City region Friday and Saturday, with highs climbing to the middle and upper 90s, according to the National Weather Service.

Because of the humidity, the heat index is expected to be between 100 and 105 degrees in the afternoon.

And there won’t be much relief after sundown, as overnight temperatures are expected to only drop into the 70s.

A heat advisory has been issued for most of eastern Kansas and Missouri, including Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Johnson and Miami counties in Kansas and Clay, Platte, Jackson and Cass counties in Missouri. The heat advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday.

The National Weather Service warns that people exposed to the heat for a prolonged period face an increased risk for heat-related illnesses.

Car interiors can also reach lethal temperatures in minutes.

Kansas City Parks and Recreation announced on Twitter that people can cool off in one of its 10 community centers.

Click here to find a community center near you.

Johnson County Health & Environment announced on Twitter that there will be cooling centers open in Johnson County in government offices and libraries.

Click here to find a cooling center in Johnson County.

The Liberty Community Center is also open as a cooling center. For more information, click here.

A cold front is expected to move through the area Tuesday night, bringing the chance of thunderstorms.

This story was originally published August 22, 2014 at 9:50 AM with the headline "Dangerous heat expected in Kansas City Friday, Saturday."