Summer’s Heat Bakes Central Indiana
Hottest Weather of the Year Continues This Week
The hottest weather of the year will continue through Thursday. So far the string of 90 degrees or higher days at Indianapolis may extend to as many as 6 by Thursday. The last time this occurred at Indianapolis was during the summer of 2002. Cooler and drier air will arrive for the weekend to end the 90 degree weather.
The all-time July record belongs to the historic summer of 1936 which saw 15 consecutive days with a high temperature of 90 degrees or more, including an astonishing 9 consecutive days with a high of 100 degrees or more!
While this weather is certainly hot, this current weather will not set any high temperature records. An average summer in Central Indiana will experience about 18 days with a high temperature of 90 degrees or higher, with 8 occurring during July. Prior to the current heat wave, Indianapolis had only registered 2 days of 90 or greater this year.
With this hot summer weather will also come high levels of humidity, as is typical for July in central Indiana. While high temperatures will top out in the lower to middle 90s...afternoon heat indices could exceed 100 degrees for a few hours during the hottest times of the day. These levels are high enough that residents should take extra precautions.
Heat Index values of over 100 degrees can cause sunstroke, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion with prolonged periods of physical activity. Those working outside will be at a greater risk for heat exhaustion. If you must be outdoors, drink plenty of water and wear lightweight, light colored clothing to keep from becoming overly heated.
Stay tuned to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis for up to date forecast information, including forecasts of expected high temperatures and heat index values. A current forecast may be obtained at: http://www.weather.gov/indy
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Statement prepared by
Logan Johnson, Climate Services Focal Point along with the Indy Web Team.
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