Wisconsin Weather: Dangerous Heat Coming This Week

MILWAUKEE, WI — The National Weather Service says dangerously high temperatures are expected over much of Wisconsin during the next several days, and the Department of Health Services is reminding residents to take steps to stay cool during this heat wave.

Here's the forecast from the National Weather Service for the Milwaukee area:

Wednesday
Warm and humid. Partly sunny. Highs in the mid 80s. East winds up to 10 miles per hour.

Thursday
Hot and humid. Mostly cloudy in the morning then clearing. A 30 percent chance of light showers and thunderstorms. Highs in the lower 90s. Southwest winds 10 to 20 miles per hour. Highest heat index readings 100 to 105 in the late morning and afternoon.

Friday
Sunny. Highs in the mid 90s.

Follow these tips to stay safe during extreme heat:

• Stay in air conditioning. When possible, stay in air conditioning on hot days. If you don’t have air conditioning, head to libraries, malls, and other public spaces to keep cool.
• Check on loved ones. Be sure to check on older friends and neighbors who live alone and don’t have air conditioning.
• If you have to be outside, stick to the cooler morning and evening hours. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent, air conditioned breaks.
• Beware of hot cars. Never leave a person or a pet in a parked car, even for a short time. On an 80 degree day, the temperature inside a car can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water on hot days. Avoid alcohol and hot, heavy meals. Watch your local weather forecasts so you can plan outdoor activities safely. Pay attention to any extreme heat alerts.

Health officials say people between the ages of 15 and 34 are the most likely to go to the emergency room for getting sick from the heat. "No matter your age or how healthy you are, it’s important to stay cool and hydrated, and check the forecast before heading outside.

"If you start feeling overheated, weak, dizzy, nauseated, or have muscle cramps, you could be experiencing heat illness. Move to air conditioning, drink water, get under a fan, and put on cool washcloths. If your symptoms worsen or don’t improve, go to the emergency room," health officials said.