MARQUETTE - With high temperatures and humidity expected to continue throughout the Upper Peninsula for the rest of the week, Yoopers should take some precautions to stay safe and cool.
The combination of a high pressure system and south winds drawing heat to the north will keep things hot, according to the National Weather Service.
"Unfortunately we're going to stay under a high pressure system for the week," said NWS meteorologist Jane Wix. "We're going to stay pretty hot, around mid 80s and low 90s until the weekend...
"Our normal values for this time of the year are in the 70s for the highs."
Sunday, temperatures reached 94 degrees at the NWS office in Negaunee Township. Temperatures reached 95 in Iron Mountain and 97 degrees in downstate Alpena.
Although the area was expected to get a break from the humidity Tuesday, temperatures are expected to be back up Wednesday and Thursday, highest in the western U.P. Combined with dew points in the 70s, this will result in heat index values - a measure of how hot it feels - in the 95- to 105-degree range.
Friday and Saturday, temperatures will likely be near 90 degrees again, but humidity is expected to decrease, with heat index values below 100 degrees.
In light of the unusually high temperatures, the NWS has issued some safety tips which will help people stay cool.
"Whatever you do, do not leave your kids or your animals in your car," Wix said. Vehicles, like a greenhouse, allow heat to enter but do not allow it to leave, allowing temperatures to become life-threatening within minutes, and can reach 40 degrees above the outside air temperature.
Residents should also attempt to keep their living spaces cool by covering windows to keep the sun from shining in. If your home doesn't have air conditioning, the NWS suggests opening windows to let air circulate.
If temperatures are over 95 degrees, use a fan to blow hot air out of the window, rather than blowing hot air onto yourself or others. Basements or ground floors are also typically cooler than upper floors.
If you are planning on being active during the day, slow down and limit the amount of physical activity you do. Plan your outdoor activities for the morning or after dark when temperatures are usually cooler.
Drinking a lot of water and eating lightly can also help. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty.
"Make sure you stay away from alcohol and carbonated beverages," Wix said, adding that those types of drinks can make you more dehydrated.
Dressing in lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing, as well as using a hat or umbrella to keep your head cool, is also a good idea, as is applying sunscreen to protect from sunburns.
In addition, the NWS suggests continuing to take medications unless your doctor says to stop.
Taking a cool, not cold, bath or shower can work faster to cool you down than an air-conditioner. Applying cold, wet rags to the head, neck and arms and legs also helps to cool the body quickly.
Those at greatest risk for heat-related illnesses or complications include older adults, young children and infants, those with chronic heart or lung problems, people with disabilities, those who are overweight, those who work outside or in hot settings and users of certain medications.
Johanna Boyle can be reached at 906-486-4401.
