DES MOINES — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a heat advisory for Dallas County in effect until 7 p.m. Friday.
A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity will combine to create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
Temperatures are expected to range from the middle 80s to lower 90s, with peak heat index values in the middle 90s — approaching 100 at times — expected Friday afternoon.
Prolonged exposure to heat and humidity may lead to heat-related illness if precautions are not taken, the NWS said. People planning outdoor activities and people attending or
participating in athletic and other outdoor events today should be cognizant of these unusually warm and humid conditions.
The heat advisory for Dallas County includes Perry and the following towns: Adel, Booneville, Bouton, Dallas Center, Dawson, De Soto, Dexter, Granger, Linden, Minburn, Redfield, Van Meter, Waukee and Woodward.
Dallas County residents and visitors are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
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 lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible,
and drink plenty of water.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency: Call 911.
Conditions more typical of summer than fall can be expected through the weekend, with unusually high heat and humidity for late September.
