The National Weather Service says the advisory is in effect until 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 2, with heat index values expected to reach 100 to 103 degrees.
The advisory includes Dallas, Polk, Jasper, Poweshiek, Madison, Warren, Marion, Mahaska, Union, Clarke, Lucas, Monroe, Wapello, Ringgold, Decatur, Wayne, Appanoose and Davis counties.
Communities included in the advisory area include Ottumwa, Oskaloosa, Pella, Knoxville, Newton, Indianola, Des Moines, Perry, Waukee, Adel, Norwalk, Grinnell, Winterset, Osceola, Chariton, Creston, Centerville, Bloomfield, Albia, Carlisle, Lamoni, Mount Ayr, Leon, Corydon, Humeston and Seymour, among others.
The combination of high temperatures and humidity can cause heat-related illnesses. Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air conditioning when possible and limit time spent in the sun.
If you have to be outside, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and try to schedule strenuous activities for the early morning or evening. Officials also recommend checking on family members, friends and neighbors who may be especially vulnerable to the heat.
The heat won’t completely disappear after the advisory ends. The National Weather Service expects late-season heat and humidity to continue from Thursday through the weekend, with some breaks at times.
There will also be low chances for thunderstorms beginning Thursday morning and continuing at times through the weekend. The overall threat of severe weather is low, although a few strong storms cannot be ruled out.
Residents should continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and take precautions during periods of extreme heat.
Source: National Weather Service, Des Moines
