Iowa, alongside large swaths of the United States, is bracing for a dangerously hot weekend, with heat indices forecasted to reach over 100° F. The multi-day heat wave begins today (Friday), and the National Weather Service (NWS) projects Carroll will see the highest heat index values of the day at 105° F around 8 p.m. The sweltering temperatures continue into Saturday, with a peak index around 106° F. Sunday is nominal cooler, but not by much, as heat index values are again topping 102° F. Sustained temperatures that high are potentially hazardous for people and pets. NWS staff reminds Iowans who will be spending time outdoors to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade or an air-conditioned building to prevent heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion, symptoms of which include dizziness, nausea, or hot, dry skin, move them to a cool place immediately. Remove excess clothing, apply cool water, and use a fan to cool them. In the event of suspected heat stroke, a potentially deadly condition marked by an altered mental state or unconsciousness, call 911. Also, a reminder that temperatures inside parked vehicles can rise to dangerously high levels very quickly. On a 95° F Day, a parked car can reach 114° F in just 10 minutes. That increases to 124° F in 20 minutes, 129° F in 30 minutes, and nearly 140° F in about an hour.
