Scorching temperatures to continue today

Electric fans and air conditioners will be on overtime today as the recent heatwave is expected to reach its peak with a gradual cool-off starting tomorrow. Jeff Wallenfang, a National Weather Service meteorologist, says this afternoon’s high temperatures in parts of Iowa may make it into the triple-digits. Highs should be in the upper 90s across much of the state and into the low 100s in southwest Iowa. Combined with the high humidity levels, the heat index could reach 105 or 110 degrees, which Wallenfang says is prompting a weather warning. The heat advisory is in effect for much of western and southern Iowa through tonight and Wallenfang urges people who work outside to take it easy and drink plenty of fluids. Despite the hot weather, Wallenfang says no Iowa cities have been breaking records lately. Many of the standing records for this time of year date back to the “dustbowl days” of 1936 when the temps topped out around 105 and 110.