La Crosse, Wis. – Residents in the Upper Midwest are being warned of a dangerous heatwave this weekend, with heat index values soaring as high as 105°F by Saturday afternoon. The National Weather Service (NWS) in La Crosse has issued an Extreme Heat Watch from Saturday afternoon through Sunday evening, affecting parts of northeast Iowa, southeast Minnesota, and southwest Wisconsin.
Areas Affected by the Heatwave
The heatwave will impact cities like La Crosse, Winona, Rochester, Decorah, and Charles City, as well as counties including Floyd, Allamakee, and Grant. The combination of extreme heat and high humidity will significantly raise the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and those without air conditioning.
Health Risks and Safety Recommendations
The intense heat and humidity could lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other health issues. Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on neighbors who might be more at risk, particularly the elderly. Cities such as Platteville and Prairie du Chien, with limited shade and urban heat, could experience even more oppressive conditions during the afternoon.
Impact and Potential Relief
Cooling centers may open in affected areas if temperatures climb higher than expected. The last time the region faced similar extreme heat was in July 2022, which caused strain on local power grids and led to a surge in heat-related emergency calls.
The heatwave is expected to break late Sunday night as a cold front moves through the region, bringing relief. However, additional heat advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
With the Upper Midwest facing dangerous heat this weekend, residents should take precautions to stay cool and safe. It’s important to stay hydrated, avoid excessive outdoor activity, and keep an eye on vulnerable individuals. Officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
