Dubuque Could See its First 100 Degree Day in Over 10 Years

Dubuque could see its first 100°F day since 2012 this week. As it stands right now, Thursday, July 27th is set to be one of the hottest days in recent memory for the Tri-States, with temperatures presently projected at 95°F. That means heat indices will potentially be around/over 105°F.

As somebody who keeps their apartment air conditioned to 66°F and absolutely detests the heat, this isn't great news. It's important to take this heat seriously, however, because heat stroke and heat exhaustion are very real, especially if you work outside this time of year. As a result, the City of Dubuque has taken action and the American Red Cross in Davenport released some helpful tips to stay cool during this heat wave.

The City of Dubuque Has Opened Cooling Centers:

The City of Dubuque has laudably established several cooling centers in the area where people can enter and get a break from the oppressive temperatures. They also reminded residents that anyone can suffer from heat-related illnesses, but these particular sectors of the population are especially at risk:

• People 65 and older
• Infants and young children
• People who are overweight
• Anybody doing any physical activity outdoors
• People who have chronic health conditions, specifically heart disease or high blood pressure
• People who take certain medications, including medicine for depression, insomnia or poor circulation

Here are the cooling centers in the area, along with their respective hours:

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1. Carnegie-Stout Public Library, 360 W. 11th St.

• Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

2. Multicultural Family Center, 1157 Central Ave.

• Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

3. Bunker Hill Golf Course Clubhouse, 2200 Bunker Hill Rd.

• Sunday - Saturday, 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.

4. Salvation Army, 1099 Iowa St.

• Tuesday - Friday, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

5. Dubuque Rescue Mission, 398 Main St.

• 2nd floor daily, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The American Red Cross' Tips to Stay Cool:

The American Red Cross has also released some safety tips in order to combat and safely navigate this week's heat wave:

• Hot cars can be deadly. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle. The inside temperature of the car can quickly reach 120 degrees.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• If you don’t have air conditioning, seek relief from the heat during the warmest part of the day in places like schools, libraries, theaters, malls, etc.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Take frequent breaks and use a buddy system when working outdoors.
• Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade.
• Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle, and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.

Assure Your Pets are Hydrated:

This time of year, I always put out an extra water bowl (which makes four) for my two cats. Anyone with cats knows getting them to drink adequate water is a task and a half, as most cats are notoriously dehydrated (wet food helps mitigate this to a degree). Furthermore, The Humane Society has released a comprehensive list on how to keep pets safe during a heat wave. Some of their points are as follows:

• Watch the humidity
• Limit exercise on hot days
• Don't rely on a fan
• Provide ample shade and water
• Prepare for power outages

For a point-by-point break down, visit The Humane Society's website.

Read more about the ways the City of Dubuque is assuring residents' safety during this heat wave, and see the complete release from the American Red Cross here.