Des Moines, Iowa – A surge of dangerous heat will grip Iowa Wednesday, with temperatures and humidity combining for a heat index near 105° from noon until 8 p.m. across every county. Emergency officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor activities and check on vulnerable neighbors as the risk of heat-related illnesses escalates.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, the Heat Advisory covers the entire state, including cities like Des Moines, Waterloo, Ames, Ottumwa, and Fort Dodge. The alert takes effect at noon Wednesday and runs through 8 p.m. for all counties, with Appanoose, Davis, and Wapello counties already under a separate advisory through Tuesday evening due to earlier heat.
Road crews, delivery drivers, and anyone without access to air conditioning are especially at risk. Local health agencies recommend staying in cool indoor spaces, drinking extra fluids, and limiting strenuous activity. Schools and community centers in several counties are expected to open cooling shelters as conditions worsen.
Officials warn this may be Iowa’s hottest day of July and could rival similar heat waves from recent years. Power companies are preparing for increased demand as air conditioners run overtime.
Heat advisories remain in effect through Wednesday evening, with possible updates or extended warnings if high temperatures persist. Residents are urged to monitor local alerts and prepare for another round of dangerous heat.
