EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (WEAU) – The weekend brought increasingly hot and humid weather with the worst yet to come as we head into the last week of August. Monday has been declared a 13 FIRST WEATHER ALERT DAY as high temperatures and humidity lead to dangerous heat index values, or wind chills, across western Wisconsin. We are also watching for a severe weather threat Monday evening and overnight as a cold front moves in.

Temperatures are expected to reach the low to mid 90s on Monday, while dew points will remain in the very uncomfortable 70s. The combination will send our heat index values ​​to dangerous levels near or above 100°. As a result, the National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for much of the area, as we could see wind chills of up to 110°. Taylor and Clark Counties are under a heat warning, as heat index values ​​could reach as high as 105°. Both warnings are in effect from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Given the expected conditions, it is best to limit the amount of time you and your pet spend outside. If you work outside, make sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Children and pets should NEVER be left in a vehicle, as the temperature inside is much higher than the outside temperature. Additionally, you should not walk dogs on asphalt in this weather, as the surface temperature is significantly higher and can cause physical injuries to their paws. It is also a good idea to check on your neighbors and the elderly to make sure they are okay!

After Monday’s heat, the focus will shift to the possibility of a few strong to severe thunderstorms with large hail, damaging winds and heavy downpours as the main concerns. You can find more details on this and a look at what the rest of the week has in store by visiting the First Alert weather page here or downloading the 13 First Alert weather app.

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