Discover the Absolute Hottest Place in Missouri (118°F!)

Written by Kirstin Harrington
Updated: July 11, 2023
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Missouri is known as the Show Me State thanks to popular cities such as Branson, Kansas City, St. Louis, and Joplin. With sweltering summers and mild winters, many people flock to this midwestern state. 

Have you ever thought to yourself, “What is the hottest town in Missouri?” If so, you’re in the right place! We’ve done the research for you and discovered everything you need to know! 

The Hottest Place in Missouri

Warsaw, Missouri, USA

Warsaw is west of St. Louis.

©Tudoran Andrei/Shutterstock.com

The second driest year on record for Missouri is 1901. 53 years later, in 1954, Warsaw and Union, MO, set records with 118-degree days! Ironically enough, Warsaw is also on record for the coldest day in Missouri with a frigid temperature of negative 40 degrees in 1911. 

It is extremely uncommon for the same municipality to have both the state’s record for the highest and lowest temperatures.

History of Warsaw

The population of Warsaw, MO, the county seat of Benton County, which has around 2,100 permanent residents, nearly doubles throughout the lake season. That’s thanks to lake aficionados, campers, and anglers who set up temporary residences nearby or simply visit for the variety of activities the area offers. 

Warsaw has persevered through the years to develop into a rapidly expanding community that emanates small-town charm and offers a wealth of recreational possibilities for residents and visitors alike. 

The Indians are riding a horse and spear ready to use In light of the Silhouette

Native Americans found Warsaw, MO, to be incredibly beneficial in terms of natural goods.

©TORWAISTUDIO/Shutterstock.com

The Delaware, Shawnee, Kickapoo, Sac and Fox, and other Indian tribes lived in the vicinity when white explorers first arrived in it in 1719. Yet, the Osage Indians, from whom the river would subsequently acquire its name, were by far the majority of the territory.

The region had an abundance of rivers and springs, which along with the abundance of game made for excellent places to hunt for the locals. The Indians discovered enough flint rock in its bluffs and foothills to produce arrows, blades, and other weapons.

In around 1820, English, Irish, and German-speaking farmers from Kentucky and Tennessee began to settle in what eventually came to be the town of Warsaw, MO. The hamlet quickly developed into a major hub for transportation and freighting.

During February 1838, the first municipal lots for Warsaw were auctioned, and the town steadily started to expand.

Things to Do in Warsaw

Even though Warsaw, MO, is a small town, it still has plenty to offer locals and visitors alike. Recently, Drake Harbor had a substantial restoration. Residents of Warsaw take advantage of it for a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as strolling, bicycling, fishing, sailing, and enjoying the riverbank.

Lamp post along the river walk at Drake Harbor and Recreation Area in Warsaw, Missouri

Drake Harbor is an excellent place to bird watch!

©Wspin/Shutterstock.com

The Truman Lake Mountain Bike and Hiking Park is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. The Benton County Museum is located at 1660 Hilltop Drive in Warsaw, right next to Farmers Bank. You’ll find the county’s collection of objects illustrates its rich cultural history and tradition, the Benton County Historical Society has developed an inviting environment.

One of the most well-liked recreation lakes in Missouri is Harry S. Truman Reservoir. The reservoir and flood control dam were built, with construction starting in 1964 and ending in 1979. The Harry S. Truman Dam is made up of a concrete spillway, an earth embankment, and a hydroelectric power plant. 

It is situated on the Osage Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, right by Warsaw. A fantastic observation deck and a magnificent portrayal of the history of the dam are also available in the visitor center.  There are hiking paths on the property, as well as structures from the 1800s.

Average Temperatures for Missouri

On a typical basis, there are 40 to 60 days in the Show Me State that see summertime highs of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Even though they don’t happen often, Missouri has seen below-freezing temperatures in every county.

Heat, thermometer shows the temperature is hot in the sky, Summer

Missouri is no stranger to extreme heat.

©VladisChern/Shutterstock.com

On average, statewide highs in July and August range from 87 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The roughly 70,000 square miles, primarily flat terrain of Missouri is susceptible to temperature extremes. 

It’s vital to keep in mind that the climate in Missouri differs by location; the northwest and southeast can be pictured as being divided by a diagonal line because they have visibly distinct climates. 

Wildlife in Warsaw

The Harry S. Truman Reservoir and its surroundings in Warsaw are home to a plethora of animals.  The Department of Conservation stocks the lakes near Warsaw with millions of fish. Truman Lake hosts numerous competitions every year and is well-known for its crappie and bass. 

This small town is also home to white-tailed deer, turkeys, squirrels, rabbits, quail, and waterfowl. Bald eagles can find habitats near the water’s edge, and pairs are frequently visible in the summertime. 

A wonderful approach to making memories with loved ones is to spend time outside and share those special moments that only nature can offer.

Where is Warsaw, MO Located on a Map?

Warsaw is a city found in Benton Missouri. The population is small, with less than 3,000 people during the 2010 census. Warsaw is adjacent to the Osage River and is tied to two major lakes located along the body of water.

Here is Warsaw, MO on a map:

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/fotoguy22


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About the Author

Kirstin is a writer at A-Z Animals primarily covering animals, news topics, fun places, and helpful tips. Kirstin has been writing on a variety of topics for over five years. She has her real estate license, along with an associates degree in another field. A resident of Minnesota, Kirstin treats her two cats (Spook and Finlay) like the children they are. She never misses an opportunity to explore a thrift store with a coffee in hand, especially if it’s a cold autumn day!

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