June 16—GOSHEN — A heat warning for Elkhart County and the surrounding area goes into effect Monday.
Northern Indiana National Weather Service Meteorologist Chris Roller said Sunday that a heat warning is typically issued when dangerous heat conditions are expected for a 24- to 72-hour period.
“This starts Monday and runs through Friday,” he said.
With a heat watch, heat indexes are usually expected to be between 75 and 105 degrees.
“It just creates an environment where there is no rest for those who are exhausted by the heat,” he said, adding that it is especially difficult for children and the elderly when air conditioning is not available.
During such conditions, Roller says it’s best to limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., take breaks when possible, wear clothing that is lightweight and color, and take advantage of air conditioning when possible, in libraries and grocery stores. and where else it is available.
Being proactive in dealing with the heat is the best approach, he said.
“Just plan for it, rather than trying to do it on a whim,” he said.
Roller added that, regarding leaving children and the elderly in cars, a “look before you lock” is the way to prevent this.
“Temperatures in cars can rise quickly,” he added.
For more information, visit www.weather.gov/safety/heat.
Steve Wilson is news editor for The Goshen News. You can reach him at steve.wilson@goshennews.com.
