*
By Hola Nebraska
The National Weather Service says heat index values could reach up to 107°F. The advisory remains in effect until 9 p.m. Central time.
*
Eastern Nebraska is under a heat advisory this Tuesday, June 9, as high temperatures and humidity could push heat index values up to 107°F, according to the National Weather Service in Omaha/Valley.
The heat advisory in Nebraska remains in effect until 9 p.m. Central time and covers parts of east-central, northeast and southeast Nebraska. The advisory includes communities such as Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Columbus, Norfolk, Fremont, Papillion, La Vista, Nebraska City and Beatrice.
The National Weather Service said hot and humid conditions can lead to heat-related illnesses, especially for people spending time outdoors, workers exposed to the sun, older adults, young children and residents without steady access to air conditioning.
Omaha, Lincoln and other eastern Nebraska cities are under the advisory
*
The National Weather Service advisory includes several counties and communities in eastern Nebraska, along with parts of southwest and west-central Iowa.
Cities named in the advisory include Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Papillion, La Vista, Fremont, Columbus, Norfolk, Wahoo, Nebraska City, Seward, Beatrice, Fairbury, Falls City, Auburn and Tecumseh.
Temperatures across eastern Nebraska are expected to reach the 90s, but humidity will make it feel hotter. The Tuesday morning briefing from the National Weather Service showed heat index values between 100°F and 107°F during the highest-risk period.
Nebraska Public Media reported that the advisory covers the eastern third of the state, with forecast highs in the upper 90s. In Lincoln, the forecast called for a high near 98°F, which would be the hottest temperature so far this year in the capital city.
Lincoln libraries and public centers will be available as cooling spaces
*
In Lincoln, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Director Kerry Kernen said the city’s libraries, recreation centers and senior centers will be available as cooling centers during the heat.
Residents who need to get out of the heat can go to air-conditioned public buildings during their regular hours. The advisory is especially relevant for people without air conditioning at home or those who must spend several hours outside for work, transportation or family care.
Nebraska 211 also maintains a list of cooling centers and seasonal shelters. The service includes places such as libraries, community centers, senior centers and organizations that open space during extreme heat events.
Residents can check local resources through Nebraska 211 or contact their city, county or public health officials to confirm hours before heading out.
Read more: Federal judge strikes down Nebraska law that lowered college costs for some undocumented students
Western Nebraska will see dry heat and fire risk
*
The heat will not affect the entire state in the same way. Nebraska Public Media reported that western Nebraska cities such as McCook and Imperial could reach 100°F, but with lower humidity.
Because of that lower humidity, the heat index will not be as high in some western areas, even where actual temperatures may reach triple digits. The National Weather Service did not issue the same type of heat advisory for those areas.
In the Panhandle, the main risk will be different. The region will be under a red flag warning from noon to 9 p.m. Mountain time because of strong winds and very low humidity.
The National Weather Service said humidity could fall into the single digits in some parts of the Panhandle. Combined with wind gusts that could exceed 30 mph, those conditions will sharply increase fire danger.
Heat can affect workers, children and older adults quickly
*
Weather officials recommend drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned spaces and avoiding direct sun during the hottest hours of the day.
The National Weather Service also urged residents to check on relatives and neighbors, especially older adults, young children and people with medical conditions that can worsen in extreme heat.
Anyone working or exercising outdoors should wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, take frequent breaks and try to move strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
Signs of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache or cool, clammy skin. If someone shows signs of heat stroke, including confusion, fainting, very high body temperature or hot, dry skin, call 911.
Strong storms are also possible later Tuesday
*
The National Weather Service briefing for Omaha/Valley also pointed to the potential for strong to severe storms later Tuesday and Tuesday night.
Damaging wind is the main concern, though isolated hail is also possible and a tornado cannot be ruled out in some areas. The weather service recommended having multiple ways to receive alerts and knowing where to shelter if warnings are issued during the afternoon or evening.
The intense heat and possible storms could affect outdoor plans, especially events, construction work, sports activities and afternoon travel.
The heat advisory in Nebraska remains in effect until 9 p.m. Central time Tuesday. The National Weather Service recommends limiting strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day and staying alert for additional weather advisories during the afternoon and evening.
Stay informed about what is happening in your community. Your source for stories that inspire — visit HolaNebraska.org for news, culture and community updates across Nebraska.