GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The season's first heat wave begins today, so get ready for a hot and steamy stretch of weather!
The National Weather Service of Grand Rapids has issued a Heat Advisory for the following counties: Allegan, Barry, Calhoun, Clinton, Eaton, Gratiot, Ingham, Ionia, Isabella, Jackson, Kalamazoo, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa and Van Buren.
A Heat Advisory goes into effect at noon today and lasts through 8 p.m. on Friday. This indicates that the heat index values will be near 100°. The heat index is the temperature the body feels like when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature, impacting the human body's comfort levels.
Temperatures will be reading in the low to mid-90s for the next three days with dew points in the upper 60s to low 70s. This is caused by the jet stream's current position allowing a strong ridge of high pressure to hold in place. This creates a "heat dome" effect which is why such a broad area is being impacted by the heat. Until this pattern shifts, we will continue to be hot.
Temperatures like this can heat a car quickly. At 95° it only takes 10 minutes to heat a car to 115° and 30 minutes to get to 130°. Make sure you are looking before locking.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities the next few days, drink plenty of water, dress in light-colored loose-fitted clothes, and try to take frequent breaks in AC.
Temperatures remain in the 90s through Saturday and it will stay humid through Sunday.
Stay cool!
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