After the weekend’s cool weather, temperatures will be soaring this week.

The St. Louis County Office of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service in St. Louis have issued a heat advisory every day this week through Thursday, from late morning to early evening.

Heat index values may reach up to 101 degrees due to temperatures in the low to mid-90s, with dewpoints in the lower 70s.

The advisory affects St. Louis County and St. Louis city, along with Jefferson and St. Charles counties in Missouri and St. Clair and Madison counties in Illinois.

Dangerously high temperatures and humidity can 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. Car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

People are advised to avoid poorly ventilated areas and prolonged work in the sun. Keep plenty of liquids on hand and try to stay in an air conditioned environment. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

People in the St. Louis metropolitan area can get more information about cooling centers or energy assistance related to the excessive heat by calling the United Way of Greater St. Louis at 800-427-4626, or if calling from a land line phone dial 2-1-1. You can also call Cool Down St. Louis at 314-241-7668.