The National Weather Service in Des Moines has opted to upgrade the Heat Advisory to an Excessive Heat Warning for Warren, Marion, Mahaska, Clarke, Lucas, Monroe, Wapello, Decatur, Wayne, Appanoose, and Davis counties, which will go into effect at noon and remain until 7 p.m. A Heat Advisory remains in effect for the afternoon and evening for the southern two-thirds of Iowa. Temperatures will reach the mid-to-upper 90s in some areas today with dew points to the upper 70s. This will lead to heat indices of 105° to 115°.

This is the first extreme heat episode of the season, thus we have had no opportunity to acclimate to this sort of weather. Heat illness risk is higher in these cases!

An Excessive Heat Warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures will occur. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a dangerous situation in which heat illnesses are likely.Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors – especially the elderly.

A Heat Advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected and high humidity is expected. This combination will lead to possible heat illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors – especially the elderly.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light weight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditions environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency – dial 911.