This week, the Midwest is bracing for a spell of extreme heat, with meteorologists issuing warnings about its potential dangers.
After a brief cooldown that had temperatures feeling more like fall, summer is back with a vengeance, particularly in Iowa. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) HeatRisk tool, states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska are also in for some serious heat.
The NWS defines extreme heat as “rare and/or long-duration extreme heat with little to no overnight relief.” This is a significant concern for anyone lacking proper cooling or hydration.
A recent post on X (formerly Twitter) from the NWS Weather Prediction Center highlighted the situation: “A dangerous late August heat wave is set to spread across the Midwest early this week, then shift to the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast by mid-week,” they reported. Heat indices could soar between 105-115 degrees, with warm nighttime lows, increasing the risk for heat-related ailments.
Experts suggest that this heat wave could break daily temperature records in some states, with certain areas experiencing highs up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit above normal. Meteorologist Robinson Cook indicated that the heat will gradually shift eastward into Illinois and Ohio by Tuesday, affecting the mid-Atlantic and Ohio River Valley by Wednesday.
“Currently, we have a heat ridge positioned over the central U.S.,” Cook explained. “This tends to divert storm systems away from the hottest regions.”
While North and South Dakota may see thunderstorms, the states battling the intense heat will likely remain dry.
The oppressive heat is expected to wane by the weekend, but for now, excessive heat warnings and advisories are in effect across much of the Midwest.
The NWS emphasizes the importance of staying safe during this heat wave: “Drink lots of fluids, remain in air-conditioned spaces, avoid sun exposure, and check in on friends and family.”
The NWS office in La Crosse, Wisconsin, also cautioned against leaving young children and pets in parked cars, as temperatures inside can reach dangerously high levels in just minutes.