Iowa Under Heat Advisory as Dangerous Temperatures Sweep 22 States
Iowa is among 22 states under extreme heat advisories this week, with the National Weather Service warning that heat index values could climb as high as 110 degrees in parts of western and southwest Iowa. The advisory covers Council Bluffs, Red Oak, Glenwood, Clarinda, Shenandoah, Onawa, Harlan, and Sidney, and remains in effect through late Monday night.
The warnings stretch from Alaska to the Carolinas, covering the Plains, Midwest, South, Mountain West, and Southeast. The National Weather Service says a Heat Advisory is issued when dangerous heat conditions are expected.
Which Iowa Counties Are Affected?
The advisory covers parts of western and southwest Iowa, including Pottawattamie, Mills, Fremont, Page, Montgomery, Harrison, Shelby, and Monona counties. Residents in these areas should expect heat index values of 105 to 110 degrees. The advisory runs through late Monday night.
Why Is This Heat Wave Dangerous?
Extreme heat can overwhelm the body's ability to cool itself. According to Heat.gov, heat-related illness occurs when the body cannot cool down properly, and body temperature can rise quickly, damaging the brain and other vital organs. Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, and weakness. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency marked by confusion, dizziness, or unconsciousness.
The danger is heightened when humidity is high because sweat does not evaporate as efficiently. The National Weather Service says the heat index measures how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, and full sunshine can make heat index values feel up to 15 degrees hotter.
What Should Iowans Do to Stay Safe?
The National Weather Service advises people to drink plenty of fluids, stay inside in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check on relatives and neighbors. People working outside should take frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool, shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911 if someone shows signs of confusion, dizziness, or unconsciousness. Young children and pets should never be left in unattended vehicles, as car interiors can reach lethal temperatures within minutes.
What About Cooling Off in Rivers or Lakes?
Officials warn that people trying to cool off in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, or other open water can face a separate risk: cold water shock. Even during hot weather, water can remain dangerously cold. Sudden immersion can trigger gasping, rapid breathing, and loss of swimming ability, increasing the risk of drowning. The National Weather Service advises people to use supervised swimming locations and, if in trouble, to float on their back until the initial shock passes.
Which Other States Are Under Heat Advisories?
The full list of affected states includes Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Heat index values in some southern states could reach 112 degrees. The advisories vary in duration, with some lasting through Sunday evening and others extending into Tuesday.
What Should Farmers and Outdoor Workers Know?
For Iowa's agricultural community, the heat poses a particular risk. Farmers and outdoor workers should schedule strenuous tasks for early morning or late evening, take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and drink water every 15 to 20 minutes. The National Weather Service recommends wearing lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
Livestock also need protection. Provide ample shade and fresh water, and avoid handling animals during the hottest parts of the day. Heat stress in cattle can reduce milk production and weight gain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the heat advisory last in Iowa?
The advisory is in effect through late Monday night. However, conditions could change, so check local forecasts for updates.
What is the difference between a heat advisory and an excessive heat warning?
A heat advisory is issued when dangerous heat conditions are expected, typically with heat index values of 100 to 110 degrees. An excessive heat warning is issued for even more extreme conditions, usually with heat index values above 110 degrees.
Can I still go swimming in Iowa's rivers and lakes?
Yes, but use caution. Water temperatures can remain dangerously cold even during hot weather. Use supervised swimming locations and be aware of cold water shock risks.
This article was written by John Damon for Just The News Iowa.