New HeatRisk scale maxes out for this week’s heat

The National Weather Service is giving this current heat wave the highest rating on its new HeatRisk scale.

According to the weather service, the heat this week rises to the Extreme or Purple HeatRisk level. That is reserved for dangerous heat that is rare and/or of long duration with little to no overnight relief. The heat will affect anyone without effective cooling and/or adequate hydration. Health systems, heat-sensitive industries and infrastructure will all see the affects of the extreme temperatures.

Those most of risk in the heat are women who are pregnant, newborns, children, the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, according to the weather service.

Forecasters say that heat indexes will be more than 100 degrees all week, but the Extreme HeatRisk is in effect through Thursday when high humidity will make it feel like it is up to 109 in some parts of our area, according to the Indianapolis office.