An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. EDT Thursday, with dangerously hot conditions expected across much of Indiana. Forecasters warn that heat index values could reach 109 degrees, creating hazardous conditions for anyone spending extended periods outdoors.
The warning covers dozens of counties across central, eastern, western, and southern Indiana. The first 10 counties included in the warning are Carroll, Warren, Tippecanoe, Clinton, Howard, Fountain, Montgomery, Boone, Tipton, and Hamilton.
Communities within the warning area include Lafayette, West Lafayette, Frankfort, Kokomo, Crawfordsville, Lebanon, Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, Indianapolis, Muncie, Anderson, Bloomington, Terre Haute, Columbus, Seymour, Vincennes, Bedford, and many others.
Dangerous Heat Expected
The combination of high temperatures and oppressive humidity will make it feel as hot as 109 degrees during the warning period. These conditions significantly increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for older adults, young children, outdoor workers, and individuals without access to air conditioning.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day, stay in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and anyone who may be vulnerable to the extreme heat.
Officials also stress that children and pets should never be left unattended inside a vehicle, even for a few minutes. Interior temperatures can climb to deadly levels in a matter of minutes, even with the windows cracked, making it one of the most dangerous situations during extreme heat.
Anyone experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, including dizziness, nausea, confusion, rapid pulse, or excessive sweating, should move to a cooler location immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen. Those showing signs of heat stroke should call 911 without delay.
The Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect until 8:00 p.m. EDT Thursday