Southeast Minnesota Could See Heat Index Values As High as 105 Thursday

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- Rochester along with the rest of southeast Minnesota, north Iowa and southwestern Wisconsin will be under a Heat Advisory Thursday. 

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The advisory begins at noon and is scheduled to expire at 8 p.m. Thursday’s forecasted high in Rochester is 95. 

The National Weather Service predicts the heat index in Rochester will climb as high as 97 Thursday. The Heat Index in Wabasha and Preston is forecasted to reach 105. Triple-digit heat index values are also possible in Winona, Austin and Faribault. 

Officials advise anyone working outside to wear light, loosely fitting clothing, ensure they are hydrated and to take frequent breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas. The National Weather Service also recommends not leaving children and pets outside unattended. 

The City of Rochester is reminding residents that Rochester Public Transit will be offering free rides to people seeking refuge from the hot conditions while the heat advisory is in effect. A cooler air conditioned climate will also be available at the Rochester Public Library between 10 AM and 8 PM and at the Rochester Salvation Army Community Center from 8 AM until 4 PM. 

Olmsted County has also opened Graham Park Arena to give Olmsted County Fair goers a place to cool down during the heat. The county is also advising fair attendees to hydrate, wear light, loose-fitting clothes and to attend the event in morning or evening hours. 

The severe heat could be followed by potentially severe thunderstorms. Thursday morning’s prediction from the Storm Prediction Center indicates Rochester and most of the surrounding communities are at a level two risk for severe thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.