Residents as far north as Minneapolis are experiencing heat indexes of 115°F for the third day in a row.
Weather Defender basemap with Heat Index Contours enabled
The rest of the country is experiencing significant above-average heat:
Remember that extreme temperatures are the #1 weather killer, more than tornadoes, hurricanes and lightning combined. If you must be outside, look for shade and avoid unnecessary physical exertion during peak heat hours (noon-5PM). Infants and elderly are especially at risk during extreme heat, and should be monitored closely. Finally, drinking lots of water (16-32oz per hour) is a must to avoid dehydration.
Read more weather survival tips at SurvivalCache.com.
Rounding out the Summer Heat Collection, the new Heat Index layers tell you the summary of "How Hot It Feels" outside.
- White: Below 80°F - Not significant risk for heat-related illnesses.
- Yellow: 80°F to 100°F - Caution: fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure and activity. Continuing activity could result in heat cramps.
- Orange: 100°F to 110°F - Extreme caution: heat cramps, and heat exhaustion are possible. Continuing activity could result in heat stroke
- Red: 110°F to 120°F - Danger: heat cramps, and heat exhaustion are likely; heat stroke is probable with continued activity
- Pink: 120°F or higher - Extreme danger: heat stroke is imminent
This is critical information for anyone participating in summer-time activities: sports, camping, hiking, etc. Even keeping tabs on elderly friends and family members, especially at risk from heat-related illnesses.
The Heat Index layers can be found under the Surface Weather category in the Layer Browser.