Some of the hottest days of summer are still ahead.
An extreme heat watch will take effect Saturday afternoon across Johnson County with forecasters predicting the heat index to get to as high as 110 degrees through Tuesday evening.
The National Weather Service expects the hottest conditions to arrive Sunday and Monday.
“We have heat indices generally within the 100 to 110-degree range,” said National Weather Service meteorologist Skylar Gertensen. “People can expect conditions during the daytime to be very hot, very humid, very uncomfortable.”
While daytime heat will be dangerous, overnight temperatures won’t offer much relief. Lows are expected to remain in the low to mid-70s throughout the weekend.
“Even trying to get relief at nighttime is going to be difficult for folks,” Gertensen said.
The National Weather Service reported the heat wave will begin building Saturday before peaking Sunday and Monday.
How to keep safe and cool
Johnson County health officials are encouraging residents to stay hydrated, spend time in air-conditioned spaces and avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
“Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather hazards we face because it can affect anyone, often faster than people realize,” Charlie Hunt, director of the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment, told the Post last month. “The best way to protect yourself is to stay hydrated, spend time in air-conditioned spaces, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and check on older adults, neighbors and anyone who may be more vulnerable to the heat.”
People who must work outdoors should take frequent breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water or beverages with electrolytes. Health officials note that if you feel thirsty, you may already be dehydrated.
Signs to watch for heat-related illness
The Johnson County Department of Health and Environment says symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Heavy sweating
“If you’re spending time outdoors, don’t ignore the warning signs of heat-related illness,” Hunt said.
Signs of heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, hot red skin without sweating, a rapid pulse and a body temperature above 104 degrees.
Residents needing relief from the heat can find cooling centers throughout Johnson County, including Johnson County Library branches during their regular business hours.
A county map of cooling center locations is available on the Johnson County website.
“Even though it is the summer,” Gertensen said, “stay inside if possible, limit strenuous activity outdoors during the daytime, make sure to drink plenty of fluids … and never leave children or pets in locked vehicles during extreme heat.”
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