Weather warning day: Dangerous three-digit heat indices on Monday and Tuesday

The ABC 17 Stormtrack weather team has issued a weather alert day for Monday and Tuesday as heat index values ​​in the range of 40-42 degrees are expected.

High pressure aloft will be directly overhead, preventing clouds or disturbances from moving in and cooling the air. Southerly high-altitude winds will bring even more moisture to the region, pushing dew points above 21 degrees Celsius.

The combination of high temperatures more than 10 degrees above average (above 35 degrees Celsius) and high dew points will make temperatures feel unbearable for a few days until a cold front moves in and cools temperatures overnight Tuesday into Wednesday.

A heat warning is in effect for the orange districts from Monday until 8 p.m.

Heat-related illness will be the primary concern. With a heat index of 40 degrees, everyone is at serious risk for heat-related illness with prolonged exposure. Everyone should stay indoors if possible and take steps to cool down if outdoor activities are unavoidable.

Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are two different illnesses with varying degrees of severity. If a person has a throbbing headache, is not sweating, has a high fever, dry and red skin, a rapid pulse, nausea, or is unconscious, they may have suffered heat stroke and need to call 911.

It is also important to provide pets with a safe, cool place to rest, as well as plenty of cold water. Avoid walking them during the hottest times of the day, and keep their paws off the hot pavement. If you are traveling with children, always check the back seat and never leave children or pets unattended in the car when temperatures begin to rise. Vehicle temperatures can rise above 120 degrees after just 30 minutes with the engine off.