The National Weather Service (NWS) of Bismarck has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for eastern North Dakota, including Devils Lake, Grand Forks, and Fargo starting Sunday morning, July 12 through late Monday night, July 13. NWS has also issued an Extreme Heat Warning for western and central North Dakota Saturday through Monday.
Heat indices could reach 100 to near 110 each afternoon, with little relief overnight as temperatures only fall to around 70 to 75 degrees.
According to NWS, this is the first widespread and significant heat wave of the summer to hit the Northern Plains. This could lead to numerous daily high, monthly, and even all-time temperature records.
Residents are advised to monitor the situation and take precautions if necessary; drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. According to information provided by NWS, the following groups are particularly vulnerable to heat; check in with friends and relatives who fall in one of these populations, especially if they don’t have air conditioning.
- Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death, as their bodies are less able to adapt to heat than are adults.
- Older adults, particularly those who have pre-existing diseases, take certain medications, are living alone or have limited mobility who are exposed to extreme heat can experience multiple adverse effects.
- People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave than healthy people.
- Pregnant women are also at higher risk. Extreme heat events have been associated with adverse birth outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and infant mortality, as well as congenital cataracts.
An Extreme Heat Watch is issued when dangerous heat is possible, but details are still uncertain. If an Extreme Heat Warning is issued, reschedule major outdoor activities. If you do not have air conditioning, locate the nearest cooling shelter or discuss staying with nearby family or friends who have air conditioning.