The Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St. (Metro Wire photo)

Extreme heat warning issued for Portage County as heat index could reach 109

By Patrick Lynn

STEVENS POINT — Portage County residents are being urged to take precautions as dangerous heat and humidity settle over central Wisconsin, with heat index values expected to climb as high as 109 degrees through Tuesday.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning from noon Monday through 7 p.m. Tuesday. Forecasters say temperatures in the 90s, combined with high humidity, will create potentially life-threatening conditions, with little relief overnight as lows remain in the 70s and near 80 degrees.

Portage County Sheriff Mike Lukas encouraged residents to prepare for the prolonged heat by staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and checking on elderly neighbors, people with medical conditions and others who may be vulnerable.

Health officials recommend drinking water regularly, even before feeling thirsty, and avoiding alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration. Anyone working or exercising outdoors should take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas and stop immediately if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing.

Residents without air conditioning are encouraged to spend time in public buildings that are open as cooling centers. County officials note that fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness once temperatures exceed 95 degrees.

Cooling centers available throughout Portage County include:

  • Stevens Point Public Library, 1001 Main St.
  • Plover Public Library, 2151 Roosevelt Drive.
  • Rosholt Public Library, 137 N. Main St.
  • Almond Public Library, 122 Main St.
  • Portage County Aging and Disability Resource Center, 1519 Water St., Stevens Point.
  • Stevens Point Recreation Center, 2442 Sims Ave.
  • Village of Plover Municipal Center, 2400 Post Road.
  • Village of Almond Municipal Center.
  • Jensen Community Center, 487 N. Main St., Amherst.
  • Portage County Health and Human Services, 817 Whiting Ave., Stevens Point.
  • Salvation Army, 1600 Briggs St., Stevens Point, though officials note the facility can accommodate only three or four people at a time.

County officials also reminded residents to protect pets by providing plenty of fresh water, shade and avoiding hot pavement. Children, older adults and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become deadly within minutes.

Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should be moved to a cool location immediately, and 911 should be called without delay, officials said.

Most county cooling centers will be closed Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, for the Independence Day holiday. The Village of Almond Municipal Center may be available by request during the holiday by calling 715-498-0054.