HANCOCK COUNTY – The first heat wave of the summer is set to hit Indiana this week, according the the National Weather Service.
A special weather statement from the NWS said, “An extended period of hot and humid conditions is expected across all of Central Indiana through next weekend. Daily high temperatures in the low to mid-90s with heat indices approaching 100 during the afternoon hours may be hazardous for sensitive and vulnerable populations. Take extra precautions if spending time outside during peak heating of the day.”
This being the first round of heat for the year makes it especially dangerous, according to NWS meteorologist Earl Breon, as people’s bodies are not yet acclimated to the heat, making them more vulnerable.
“Making sure you wear loose-fitting clothing, keeping your skin covered to avoid sunburn, staying hydrated, and staying aware of shaded areas is important,” Breon said.
Breon also mentioned cooling stations being a potential reprieve from the heat, but Jim Peters of the Community Organizations Active in Disasters said that, due to a lack of daytime volunteers, there wouldn’t be any cooling stations open, instead pointing people toward commercial buildings and community resources such as libraries.
The main danger to people is heat exhaustion and heat stroke, the early symptoms of which include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated body temperature and decreased urine output, according to the CDC. Those experiencing these symptoms should seek shelter and medical attention.
The heat is expected to last until Sunday, which has a forecasted high of 88° F.
