Madison, Wis. – A dangerous stretch of summer heat is set to grip much of Wisconsin starting Saturday afternoon, with heat index values climbing to 103°F across a wide swath of the state and lingering through Monday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan, a Heat Advisory is in effect from noon Saturday until 7 p.m. Monday for east-central, south-central, and southeast Wisconsin, including Dane, Rock, Waukesha, Sheboygan, and Fond du Lac counties. The combination of high temperatures and oppressive humidity will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Cities like Madison, Janesville, and Lake Geneva will feel the brunt of the heat, with limited overnight relief expected. Officials urge residents to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, hydrate frequently, and check on older adults and vulnerable neighbors, especially those without air conditioning.
Cooling centers may open in several counties, and health departments recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Roads and public transportation systems are not expected to be disrupted, but outdoor workers and pet owners should take extra precautions.
This marks Wisconsin’s first major heat event of the summer, with temperatures nearly 15°F above seasonal averages. More advisories could follow if the high pressure system stalls into next week.
