DES MOINES, Iowa — The first significant heat event of the season is set to impact much of Iowa on Tuesday, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Heat Advisory for large portions of central, western, southwestern, and northwestern Iowa.
The advisory will be in effect from 1:00 PM until 9:00 PM Tuesday, as a combination of hot temperatures and high humidity pushes heat index values well into the triple digits.
Heat Index Values Between 103 and 107 Degrees
Actual air temperatures on Tuesday are expected to climb into the lower to middle 90s across much of the state. However, when combined with elevated humidity levels, it will feel significantly hotter.
Forecast heat index values include:
- Up to 105° across central and west-central Iowa, including Des Moines, Fort Dodge, Boone, Carroll, Atlantic, Winterset, Indianola, and surrounding communities.
- Up to 107° across portions of southwest Iowa, including Council Bluffs, Glenwood, Harlan, Red Oak, Clarinda, and Shenandoah.
- Up to 103° across portions of northwest Iowa, including Sioux City, Spencer, Storm Lake, Cherokee, Orange City, and surrounding areas.
The hottest conditions are expected during the afternoon and early evening hours, with peak heat indices occurring between 2 PM and 7 PM.
Areas Included in the Heat Advisory
The advisory covers a large portion of Iowa, including:
- Des Moines Metro
- Ames
- Boone
- Fort Dodge
- Carroll
- Jefferson
- Perry
- Atlantic
- Winterset
- Indianola
- Creston
- Osceola
- Council Bluffs
- Shenandoah
- Clarinda
- Sioux City
- Spencer
- Storm Lake
- Cherokee
Additional counties across western, central, and southern Iowa are also included.
Heat Safety Tips
The combination of heat and humidity can quickly lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for those spending extended periods outdoors.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Take frequent breaks if working outside.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible.
- Check on elderly family members, neighbors, and anyone without adequate cooling.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.
Temperatures inside a parked vehicle can rise to dangerous and potentially deadly levels within minutes.
Know the Signs of Heat Illness
Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness or fatigue
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency and may include:
- Body temperature above 103°F
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Hot, red skin
- Rapid pulse
If someone shows signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately and move them to a cooler location while awaiting help.
Looking Ahead
The hottest temperatures are expected Tuesday afternoon and evening before a cold front approaches later in the week. Additional chances for showers and thunderstorms are expected by midweek, which could help bring some relief from the heat.
Stay tuned to IowaWeather.com and the ISCN Weather app for the latest forecasts, advisories, and weather updates.