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    • Extreme Temperature Plan Adopted in Des Moines Amid Expected Heat Wave
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    Extreme Temperature Plan Adopted in Des Moines Amid Expected Heat Wave

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    Iowans enjoyed a brief respite from the scorching heat at the Iowa State Fair, but the heat is now returning with a vengeance, with temperatures expected to reach nearly 100 degrees Fahrenheit later this weekend.

    The Polk County Emergency Management Agency announced on Facebook Friday night that the extreme temperature plan will go into effect from 7 a.m. Sunday through 7 a.m. Tuesday.

    Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and cool during these extremely high temperatures.

    How hot does it get?

    According to the National Weather Service Des Moines, temperatures on Sunday will reach 98 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heat index of 106 degrees Fahrenheit. However, Monday is expected to be warmer, at 98 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heat index of 106 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Polk County’s Extreme Temperature Plan is activated when the heat index is above 95 degrees Fahrenheit and there are two consecutive days where the heat index does not drop below 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

    The minimum temperature for Sunday is expected to be around 77 degrees and for Monday it is expected to be 75 degrees.

    The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning for metropolitan Des Moines and much of western Iowa.

    What is heat exhaustion? How can I prevent it?

    Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to losing water and salt, usually through excessive sweating, according to the CDC. Symptoms include heavy sweating, thirst, increased body temperature and more.

    If you think you or someone else is suffering from heat exhaustion or another heat-related illness, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

    How to stay cool:

    You can avoid heat exhaustion by wearing weather-appropriate clothing, staying indoors, and drinking plenty of fluids.

    Never leave anyone, especially children or animals, in a parked vehicle, even if the windows are slightly open.

    Where are cooling centers located in the Des Moines area?

    Avoiding the heat is the most effective way to stay safe and cool during extreme heat. The Polk County Extreme Temperature Plan allows dozens of buildings, including libraries, city halls and community centers, to be used as cooling centers for the public.

    The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) offers free rides to cooling centers. When you get in, tell the driver you need to go to a cooling center.

    Cooling centers in the Des Moines metro area include:

    • Des Moines Central Community Center, 2008 Forest Ave.
    • Des Moines Central Library, 1000 Grand Ave.
    • Des Moines Forest Ave Library, 1326 Forest Ave.
    • Four Mile Community Recreation Center in Des Moines, 3711 Easton Blvd.
    • Des Moines Northwest Community Center, 5110 Franklin Ave.
    • Polk County Health Department, 1907 Carpenter Ave.
    • Des Moines South Side Library, 1111 Porter Ave.

    A complete listing of available cooling centers can be found on the Polk County website.

    Kyle Werner is a reporter for the Register. You can reach him at [email protected].

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