WEST MICHIGAN – The heat is…almost on.
Area emergency management and health departments are starting preparations for an extended string of hot and humid days in West Michigan by issuing tips and scheduling the opening of cooling centers.
Temperatures are expected to hit 90 in Grand Rapids on Wednesday and then get even warmer from there. A warm front bringing hotter, more humid air is expected on Thursday, raising temperatures to the mid-90s and making it feel like the temperatures are over 100. Temps should start dropping back into the 80s on Monday.
Kent County Emergency Management says that Heartside Cooling Centers will be available at Guiding Light Mission and Mel Trotter Ministries. For a complete schedule, click here (DOC).
Residents are being advised to check on their elderly family members and neighbors and also pets. You should never leave kids or animals in a parked vehicle unattended.
The Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan may also be able to provide air conditioners or fans to residents ages 60 or older. You can call 616-459-6019 if you need assistance. The Heart of West Michigan United Way may also be able to help you if you call 211.
The last real similar heat wave occurred three years ago in mid-July of 2013. Here are the numbers:
- July 14 – 91
- July 15 – 95
- July 16 – 93
- July 17 – 95
- July 18 – 95
- July 19 – 96
We may, very well, rival those numbers…just not quite as long. This heat wave will hit hard Thursday, Friday, and Saturday this week. The cold front and system will slide through Sunday with a chance of a few thunderstorms and somewhat cooler temps with drier air arriving next Monday.
Almost two dozen states from the Northern, Central, and Southern Plains have some type of heat watch/warning/advisory already in place. While local health departments and emergency managers are warning residents about the upcoming heat, the actual “advisory” or “warning” is officially issued by the local National Weather Service. Click over to www.fox17onlinecom/weatherfor the complete forecast. Stay cool!
