A heat wave is coming to Indiana

A forecasted heat wave is estimated to bring the hottest days of the year so far to Indiana. As IPR’s Thomas Ouellette reports, the National Weather Service says starting Sunday or Monday, Hoosiers are expected to see temperatures in the mid-90’s.

While these temperatures are normal for mid to late summer, their current early arrival is not. Meteorologists say the state sees highs in the low 80’s around now.

Jason Puma is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indiana. He says the source of the heat wave is greater temperatures across the country.

“Right now, there’s a big ridge across the western United States, and places like Las Vegas and Arizona and those places in the American Southwest, they’re getting a lot of heat right now due to that ridge of high pressure and that dome or wave of heat. Well, that wave is actually going to approach us next week and be over the eastern United States.”

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Puma says that after about a week, the temperatures should drop to more normal numbers as colder air from the Canadian Northwest flows south.

If proper precautions are not taken, people planning on spending a long time outside may be at risk of dehydration and heat stroke.

“Limit your time limit your exposure, stay hydrated, wear loose, light fitting clothing,” Puma says.  “Check on those who are particularly susceptible to heat, including the kids, elderly and your pets as well, because they sweat and they feel the heat as well.”

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Those who feel the symptoms of heat stroke, such as a strong headache, are advised to try and cool themselves as quickly as possible through hydration or moving to a shaded area.

While this wave is an uncommon occurrence, Puma says it isn’t anything alarming, and that the rest of the summer should see normal and consistent numbers.

Thomas Ouellette is our reporter and producer.  Contact him at thomas.ouellette@bsu.edu.