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High heat index in Metro Detroit today: What that means

It’s getting hot out there

Photo by Xavier Coiffic on Unsplash (Unsplash)

DETROIT – A high heat index is expected Tuesday as summerlike weather takes hold in Metro Detroit.

High temperatures were expected to reach the upper 80s for most on Tuesday, June 4 -- but it’ll feel even warmer, thanks to what’s known as the heat index. To determine the true “feels like” temperature amid the hotter weather, the heat index looks at both the actual temperature and the relative humidity.

The higher the percentage of relative humidity, the hotter the temperature is going to feel. If the air temperature is already quite high, a high humidity level would lead to an even higher number on the heat index, which could create dangerous conditions.

Here’s a look at the actual heat index, courtesy of the National Weather Service:

Heat index, courtesy of the National Weather Service (NWS)

We are not expecting extremely dangerous heat indices on Tuesday in Southeast Michigan. With highs in the upper 80s and a relative humidity of around 55%, temperatures will feel like the low 90s for most areas.

Still, those numbers mean people should take caution to avoid heat-related issues like heat exhaustion. Especially when you take into account that the heat index above is designed for shady locations. Heat index values can increase by up to 15 degrees for areas exposed to direct sunlight, the NWS says.

A 15-degree heat index increase on Tuesday could put sunny Metro Detroit areas within the “danger” zone at times.

Here are the bodily effects people may feel in connection with each section of the heat index, according to the NWS:

  • Caution (80-90 degrees): Fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
  • Extreme caution (90-103 degrees): Heat stroke, heat cramps, or heat exhaustion are possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
  • Danger (103-124 degrees): Heat cramps or heat exhaustion likely, and heat stroke possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity.
  • Extreme danger (125 degrees or higher): Heat stroke highly likely.

Below you’ll find a list of symptoms for heat-related illnesses and what to do about them, according to the CDC.

Check the current temperature and humidity level on our weather page here.


About the Author
Cassidy Johncox headshot

Cassidy Johncox is a senior digital news editor covering stories across the spectrum, with a special focus on politics and community issues.

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