Sioux Falls, SD — A heat advisory is in effect from noon today until 8 p.m. CDT this evening for parts of South Dakota, Iowa, and Nebraska. Scorching temperatures and high humidity are expected to create a dangerous heat index, which could climb to 105°F.
Residents are urged to take immediate precautions to protect their health, especially during outdoor activities.
Dangerous Heat and Humidity
According to the National Weather Service, the excessive heat and humidity significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses in impacted areas, which include Sioux City, Yankton, Mitchell, and several other cities in southeast South Dakota, northwest Iowa, and northeast Nebraska. The advisory also affects communities such as Vermillion, Le Mars, and South Sioux City.
Precautionary Measures
As temperatures soar this afternoon, the heat index will rise rapidly, and officials are advising residents to take the following actions:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces when possible.
Avoid the sun as much as possible to reduce exposure to extreme heat.
Additionally, it’s important to never leave young children or pets in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside cars can rise to life-threatening levels in just a few minutes.
Additional Safety Tips
With dangerous conditions expected to continue through the evening, residents are reminded to:
Check on neighbors, particularly the elderly, who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
Reschedule outdoor work and activities during peak heat hours to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Stay Informed
As the heat advisory continues, stay informed for any updates. The advisory could be extended, or additional warnings may be issued if conditions worsen.