Staff report
Bloomington, Indiana – August 21, 2023
The National Weather Service’s Indianapolis office has issued a heat advisory and excessive heat watch for Monroe County, Indiana, and surrounding areas. Residents are urged to take precautionary measures as dangerous heat and humidity sweep through the region, raising concerns about heat-related illnesses and outdoor activity safety.
The advisory, in effect until 8 AM EDT on Wednesday, warns of heat index values of up to 107. An excessive heat watch is anticipated from Wednesday morning through Thursday evening, potentially bringing heat index values as high as 109.
Humidity is expected to climb starting Monday with dew points over 70 in Indiana. A “heat dome” is expected to cover an area from Kansas to Ohio, and from Minnesota to Mississippi.
Local authorities and the National Weather Service recommend monitoring updated forecasts and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Individuals are advised to remain indoors in air-conditioned environments, limit sun exposure, and check on neighbors and relatives, particularly the elderly and those without access to air conditioning.
The heightened risk of heat-related illnesses emphasizes the need for caution during outdoor activities and strenuous work. Pets and young children should never be left unattended in vehicles, as car interiors can quickly reach life-threatening temperatures.
Officials from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management have also declared an air quality alert until midnight EDT on Monday night. Ozone levels are predicted to be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range, necessitating measures to minimize outdoor exposure, especially for children and adults with respiratory conditions.
