If the air feels especially thick and muggy this morning, you are not imagining it. Hot and humid conditions are settling across southeast Iowa, with dangerous heat and the possibility of severe storms in Monday’s forecast.
The National Weather Service expects temperatures to reach the upper 80s to lower 90s south of Highway 30. When humidity is factored in, afternoon heat index values could climb into the upper 90s and lower 100s across southeast Iowa.
Fairfield could experience a peak heat index near 103 degrees, while Burlington could reach approximately 102. Cloud cover and thunderstorms may keep temperatures somewhat lower in certain areas.
Isolated to scattered thunderstorms could develop between 1 and 10 p.m. today. Any storms that become severe could produce damaging winds, small hail, heavy rainfall and localized flash flooding. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, although that threat remains very low.
Very warm and humid conditions are expected through at least Wednesday, with additional rounds of thunderstorms possible throughout the workweek. The National Weather Service says there is a 50% to 70% chance that locations across the region receive more than one inch of rain by Friday morning.
Anyone working or spending time outside should drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in the shade. Never leave children or pets unattended inside a vehicle.