Central U.S. sees more record October heat after historic September
On October 13, 2026, six locations across Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Illinois either broke or tied daily high-temperature records. Readings reached 32.8–33.9°C, which was 9.4–13.3°C above normal. The event came after the contiguous United States recorded its warmest September in 132 years of data.
On Oct. 13, 2026, six central U.S. sites—St. Louis; Quincy and Springfield, Illinois; Springfield, Missouri; Wichita; and Tulsa—set or matched daily heat marks. Highs ranged from 32.8°C to 33.9°C, between 9.4°C and 13.3°C warmer than usual. Some previous records dated to the 1800s or mid-1900s.
The preceding day brought additional records in St. Louis, Quincy and Springfield, Illinois. The event followed the contiguous U.S.’s warmest September in 132 years, with NOAA reporting 20.8°C, 2.6°C above the 20th-century average. Eight states, including Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma, had their warmest September. Forecasters expected above-normal warmth to linger in parts of the Midwest and Southeast before cooler Canadian air arrived.
Prolonged late-season heat could strain vulnerable residents, outdoor workers, and emergency services across the central U.S. Power demand may rise as people seek cooling, while crops and livestock could face added stress. Coming after an already hot September, the records may heighten public health concerns, especially where overnight relief is limited. Cooler air later in the week could ease conditions, though impacts may linger.