Johnston Heat Advisory Upgraded to Excessive Heat Warning

A dangerous heat wave continues its sweaty grip on central Iowa and the rest of the Midwest, with triple-digit temperatures forecast until at least the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

A heat advisory has been upgraded to an excessive heat warning, with heat indices as high as 110 degrees in some areas today and Friday. “While heat index values may not reach the 110-degree criteria, the current heat duration has reached a critical point that validates the upgrade,” the Weather Service said.

Here’s what to expect:

It’ll be sunny and hot with temperatures around 100 both today and Friday. The dew point is inching up, and that could make the real-feel temperature as high as 108 degrees today and 110 degrees Friday. Saturday looks to be about the same, with a forecast high around 98.

Some relief is in sight. The forecast calls for highs in the upper 80s from Sunday through Wednesday.

How are you coping with the heat? Tell us below in comments.

Until then, remember that heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer in the United States, on average killing more people each year than floods, lightning, tornadoes and hurricanes combined, according to the National Weather Service.

Where to Cool Off

To escape the heat head to the Johnston Public Library, a designated cooling center.

The library is open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

Other day-time cooling stations are Merle Hay Mall, Valley West Mall and Jordan Creek Town Center.

The city of West Des Moines has designated and as the primary cooling centers for West Des Moines residents.

The malls will be open today through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Check on Your Neighbors

Scott Slater, interim director of the Polk County Health Department, is reminding people to stay out of the heat as much as possible, drink plenty of water – don’t wait until you’re thirsty, he advises – and limit consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Even though as little as two hours in air conditioning can greatly reduce your risk of heat related illness, some people are reluctant to leave their homes.

“This makes it extremely important to check on others twice a day who do not have air conditioning,” Slater said. “Also remember, never leave children or pets in a car and make sure pets have cool water and shade available at all times, if possible keep pets indoors.”