Heat advisory issued for 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday for southwest Minnesota, including Nobles County

Jul. 26—SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday for counties in Minnesota including Nobles, Jackson, Cottonwood, Murray, Pipestone and Rock.

Heat index values of up to 100 are expected, and hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

The NWS recommends people drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

People working or spending time outdoors should take extra precautions, and when possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency and if someone is experiencing it, 911 should be called.

The area remains under a hazardous weather outlook for today (Wednesday) and tonight, as hot and humid conditions have led to heat indices in the upper 90s to near 100. There's a low chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms tonight, though severe weather is not expected at this time, and the heat will continue across the region Thursday.