Southeast Iowa braces for heat wave

WASHINGTON — County officials say a heat advisory is in effect from noon Monday to 8 p.m. Wednesday, with heat index values of 100 to 105 expected as high temperatures and humidity combine for a hazardous few days.

The advisory covers portions of northeast Missouri, east central, northeast and southeast Iowa, as well as north central, northwest and west central Illinois according to a Facebook post from Washington County (Iowa) Emergency Management.

Washington County Emergency Management Coordinator Marissa Reisen urged residents to err on the side of caution.

“It’s going to be incredibly hot this week for a few days, so everybody needs to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves safe,” she said. “Drink lots of water and take breaks inside.”

Reisen said people needed to stay mindful for symptoms of heat exhaustion.

“If it’s heatstroke, definitely call 911,” she said. “If it’s heat exhaustion, which is pre-heatstroke, then they just need to get inside. Get cooler, drink water, take a cool shower, and if they can’t cool down, that’s when you call 911.”

The Facebook post said heat headlines would eventually extend “into the remainder of the highway 20 corridor,” and that the advisory “may be upgraded to a heat warning Tuesday.”

The need for caution is especially prominent for those working outside.

“Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside,” the Facebook post said. “When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening … To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com