Forecasters give this heat wave highest rating; Cooling stations open for those in need

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 be see the affects of the extreme temperatures.

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

As temperatures heat up, the city of Columbus and Bartholomew County are offering cooling stations for residents in need.

According to Bartholomew County Emergency Management, if you need to get out of the heat you can stop at either the downtown Columbus or Hope branches of the Bartholomew County Public Library.

The library on Fifth Street in Columbus will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. today through Thursday. The branch on the Hope Town Square will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, and from 10 to 6 on Thursday. Both branches will be closed on Friday and Saturday, July 4th.

You can also cool off at the Community Engagement Center on Second Street in Columbus from 7 a.m. to 4 p. m. Tuesday through Thursday. It will be closed on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

After 6 p.m., Brighter Days shelter on Mapleton Street will be available.

Officials say that no food, showers, or areas for sleep available at the cooling stations. They ask that you respect the rules of the facility and respect others at the library while you are there.