(KIWA Radio) – Northwest Iowa is no stranger to temperature extremes. Our winters can bring bitter cold and dangerous wind chills, while the summer months often deliver stretches of intense heat and humidity.
Some of those hotter temperatures are headed our way today (Tuesday). And as is often the case during the summer months, the heat could also bring the potential for severe weather. That’s according to meteorologist Jeff Chapman with the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, which provides forecasts for northwest Iowa.
The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for northwest Iowa from 1:00 until 9:00 Tuesday evening, with heat index values expected to top 100 degrees.
Chapman also shared advice on how people can stay safe, cope with the heat, or work around it when possible.
Chapman says adjusting schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day is often the best approach when possible. He adds that hot, humid conditions frequently create an environment conducive to thunderstorms and severe weather.
The National Weather Service and Sioux County Emergency Management are encouraging residents to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors when possible, and take frequent breaks in air conditioning. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and relatives during the heat.
Officials also stress that children and pets should never be left inside vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes. Forecasters say strong to severe thunderstorms are also possible later Tuesday afternoon and Tuesday night, and residents are encouraged to stay weather aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings.
