What looks like a sunny summer weekend could quickly turn into a health crisis across Central Iowa. An oppressive heatwave is settling in over Polk, Dallas, and Story counties, with heat index values expected to reach a sweltering 106°F and remain dangerously high until 9 PM Sunday. And this isn’t just about discomfort—experts are warning this could trigger heat-related illnesses fast if people aren’t cautious.
This type of heat event, driven by a heat dome, traps warm, humid air near the surface—turning open spaces into outdoor ovens. The air may be in the 90s, but thanks to sky-high humidity, your body will feel like it’s baking under 106 degrees. And it’s not just the daytime that’s concerning: nighttime temperatures won’t drop below the mid to upper 70s, which means your body never gets the chance to cool off or recover.
That’s a recipe for disaster, especially for young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and anyone who isn’t staying cool and hydrated.
Why This Heat Is a Serious Health Threat
When the heat index climbs above 105°F, your body starts to struggle. Humidity interferes with sweating—your natural cooling system—and the heat begins to build up inside. Without proper precautions, heat exhaustion can strike in minutes, and if left untreated, it can escalate into heat stroke, a potentially deadly condition.
What makes this particular event more dangerous is that it’s early in the season. Most people aren’t acclimated to this level of heat yet, which increases the risk of getting sick even faster than usual.
And let’s not forget: heat is the No. 1 weather-related killer in the United States.
Who’s Most at Risk Right Now?
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Older adults, especially those living alone or without air conditioning
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Infants and toddlers, who overheat quickly
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People with chronic health conditions—heart disease, asthma, diabetes
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Workers and athletes outdoors, especially during mid-day hours
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Pets and children left in cars, even briefly—internal temps can soar to deadly levels in under 10 minutes
How to Stay Safe This Weekend
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Limit outdoor activity between 11 AM and 6 PM, when the heat index is highest
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Drink water constantly, not just when you feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks
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Dress for the weather: light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and wide-brimmed hats
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Seek air conditioning or public cooling centers—many are open in Polk, Dallas, and Story counties
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Check on your neighbors, especially seniors and people with limited mobility or no AC
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Absolutely never leave pets or children in parked cars, not even for “just a minute”
What’s the Forecast?
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Saturday: Mid-90s with heat index topping 105–106°F
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Saturday night: Temperatures dip only slightly, remaining in the high 70s
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Sunday: Repeat of Saturday’s extreme heat, with continued high humidity
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Sunday night: Heat alert expires by 9 PM—but actual relief may not come until early next week, depending on shifting weather patterns
Bottom Line
This weekend’s weather in Central Iowa isn’t just about sweating—it’s about survival. The combination of high heat and humidity, paired with poor overnight cooling, creates a hidden threat that builds over time. Don’t underestimate it. Take breaks, hydrate, check on others, and stay indoors if possible.
