Dangerous late-season heat will continue across southeast Iowa through Saturday, with the National Weather Service warning that there will be little relief even during the overnight hours.
An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect for areas along and south of Interstate 80 through Saturday, where peak heat index values are expected to reach 100 to 110 degrees. Overnight temperatures will only fall into the 70s, allowing heat stress to build over multiple days.
For southeast Iowa, the heat will be particularly intense. The National Weather Service is forecasting afternoon heat index values Friday of around 105 degrees in Burlington and 104 in Fairfield. Saturday could be even hotter in some locations, with Fairfield forecast to reach a heat index of 106 degrees, while Burlington could reach 103.
The severe weather threat for Friday has decreased. The National Weather Service has removed the previous Level 1 severe weather risk. Isolated thunderstorms remain possible mainly north of Highway 30, but most of southeast Iowa is expected to remain hot and humid.
Anyone spending an extended amount of time outside is encouraged to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in air conditioning or shade. Extra precautions should be taken during outdoor events and activities, and children and pets should never be left inside a parked vehicle.
Some relief is finally expected Sunday and Labor Day. Sunday highs are forecast in the 80s with lower humidity, followed by highs of 80 to 88 degrees on Labor Day.