Heat index values expected to reach triple digits
By The Michigan State Police
LANSING, MICH. A stretch of hot, humid weather is forecasted to impact much of Michigan this week, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division (MSP/EMHSD) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) encourage everyone to stay informed, limit outdoor activity during peak heat, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.
“Nothing beats a Pure Michigan summer, but with hot and humid temperatures in the forecast, it’s important for Michiganders to stay prepared,” said Governor Whitmer. “That means drinking more fluids, limiting time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, and checking on friends, neighbors, and loved ones. I’m also grateful to the local first responders, our MSP troopers, and Colonel Grady who will be available to assist you. Check out the resources available to you in your community to stay cool and ask for help if you need it. Let’s stay smart, stay safe, and stay cool during this heatwave.”
“High temperatures and humidity can quickly become dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions and those who work or spend time outdoors,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police and state director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. “We encourage everyone to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and check on family members, friends and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat.”
“It’s important Michiganders stay hydrated and understand the risks of excessive heat exposure during hot weather,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Signs of heat-related illness can include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting, an extremely high body temperature (above 103°F) and tiredness. Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature and can result in death if not treated promptly.”
According to the National Weather Service, much of the Lower Peninsula and portions of the western Upper Peninsula are expected to experience hot and humid conditions beginning Monday, June 29 and lasting through the Fourth of July holiday. During the peak of the heatwave, daytime temperatures across much of the Lower Peninsula are forecast to climb into the mid- to upper 90s, with heat index values exceeding 100 degrees. Overnight temperatures are expected to remain unusually warm, with lows only falling into the mid-70s, providing little relief from the prolonged heat.
The combination of high temperatures and humidity can pose serious health risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. While most healthy adults can tolerate short periods of heat, infants, young children, older adults, outdoor workers, and those with pre-existing health conditions are at higher risk of heat-related illness. Those without access to air conditioning can text or call Michigan 211 or contact their local health department to find nearby cooling centers.
To prepare for extreme heat:
• Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with blinds, shades, or awnings to reduce heat entering your home.
• Identify nearby air-conditioned locations or cooling centers in your community.
• Check regularly on elderly family members, young children, neighbors, and pets.
If you work or spend time outdoors:
• Schedule strenuous activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water consistently throughout the day.
To prevent heat illness:
• Drink plenty of water; avoid alcohol and caffeine which can contribute to dehydration.
• Limit vigorous activity, especially during peak heat hours.
• Fans alone are helpful only if indoor temperatures are less than 90 degrees. With indoor temperatures above 90 degrees, a fan can increase body temperature.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has also issued important health and safety recommendations for coping with excessive heat, which is available in Arabic, Bengali and Spanish.
Even short periods of extreme heat can be dangerous. Learn more about Extreme Heat and find information on how to prepare before, during and after an emergency or disaster, visit MIReady and follow MSP/EMHSD on X and Facebook.
