MT. VERNON –An excessive heat watch remains in effect for our region from Wednesday afternoon through Saturday evening.

The National Weather Service forecasts heat index values of up to 113 and temperatures in the upper 90s.

Dangerously high temperatures and humidity could quickly cause heat stress or heat stroke if precautions are not taken.

The very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning, and those participating in strenuous outdoor activities will be the most susceptible.

Also, car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

An excessive heat watch is advanced notice that there is the potential for a prolonged period of hot temperatures and high humidity.

This will create a dangerous situation in which heat-related illnesses are possible. Begin making preparations now, by making sure your air conditioning is in good working order or know where to go to stay cool.

In Mt. Vernon, while SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital won’t be an official warming shelter, Marketing Director Randy Schorfheide says while the hospital won’t be an official cooling center, the hospital would never turn anyone away that needs a place to cool down. He says they prepare for extreme weather like the upcoming heat wave year round.