The heat index – what is it and how is it calculated?
Heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the United States. Hundreds of people die from heat each year, and heat-related illnesses increase even more.
Ginny Beagan, TCPALM
Iowans had a break from the scorching heat during the Iowa State Fair, but it’s returning with a vengeance, with temperatures reaching nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit later this weekend.
The Polk County Emergency Management Agency announced on Facebook Friday evening that the extreme temperature plan will be activated from 7:00 a.m. Sunday to 7:00 a.m. Tuesday.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and cool in these extremely high temperatures.
How hot should it be?
According to the National Weather Service Des Moines, temperatures will reach as high as 96 degrees on Sunday, with a heat index of 105. However, higher temperatures are expected on Monday, reaching 99 degrees, with a heat index of 106.
Polk County’s extreme temperature plan is activated when the heat index is above 95 degrees and there are two consecutive days where the heat index does not fall below 75.
The low temperature on Sunday night is expected to be around 77 and Monday night is expected to be around 75.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning for the Des Moines metropolitan area and much of western Iowa.
What is heat exhaustion? How can I prevent it?
Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to water and salt loss, usually due to excessive sweating, according to the CDC. Symptoms include heavy sweating, thirst, increased body temperature, and more.
If you think you or someone else may be suffering from heat exhaustion or another heat-related illness, call 911 or go to the emergency room.
How to stay cool:
You can prevent heat exhaustion by wearing appropriate clothing for the weather, staying indoors, and drinking plenty of fluids.
You should never leave anyone, especially children or animals, in a parked vehicle, even with the windows open.
Where are cooling centers located in the Des Moines metropolitan area?
The best way to stay safe and cool during extreme heat is to get out of the heat. Polk County’s Extreme Temperature Plan allows dozens of buildings, including libraries, city halls and community centers, to be used as cooling centers for everyone.
The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) offers free rides to cooling centers. When you get on, tell the driver that you need to go to a cooling center.
Cooling centers in the Des Moines metropolitan area include:
- Des Moines Central Community Center, 2008 Forest Ave.
- Des Moines Central Library, 1000 Grand Ave.
- Des Moines Forest Ave. Library, 1326 Forest Ave.
- Des Moines Four Mile Community Recreation Center, 3711 Easton Blvd.
- Des Moines Northwest Community Center, 5110 Franklin Ave.
- Polk County Health Department, 1907 Carpenter Ave.
- Des Moines South Side Library, 1111 Porter Ave.
For a complete list of available cooling centers, visit the Polk County website.
Kyle Werner is a reporter for the Register. Reach him at [email protected].
