GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids Public Schools is closing Tuesday due to high heat, administration announced.
All classroom buildings will be closed, but the administration offices remain open.
Summer days may be waning, but the heat and humidity remain across West Michigan this week. A 13 Weather Impact Alert is in place for Monday and Tuesday.
Tuesday will be the height of the heat, with high temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s to lower 90s. Putting this in perspective, average high temperatures are around 80° for late August. Monday and Tuesday will be 10°+ above average.
Nighttime lows will only fall into the lower 70s, meaning there will be minimal relief from the daytime excessive heat.
There will be no escaping the humidity, too, as a muggy to tropical airmass settles over the region. Dew points will range from the upper 60s to lower 70s. Heat indices—also referred to as the ‘feels like’ temperature—will be near triple digits both days in the afternoon to early evening hours.
If Tuesday remains rain/storm-free, the heat index may approach 105° in the hottest and muggiest locations.
Here are some tips on how to stay cool ahead, according to the CDC:
- Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as you can.
- Drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
- Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.
- Pace yourself.
- Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
- Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.
- Never leave children or pets in cars.
- Check the local news for health and safety updates.
Keep up-to-date on the forecast on 13 ON YOUR SIDE Weather page here.