Much of Ohio will be in the heart of a heat dome bringing high temperatures this week.
The heat wave that has settled over the Ohio River Valley this week is expected to bring temperatures above 90 degrees in much of the region. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory that will remain in effect during the week.
As of Monday, temperatures are expected to be 95 degrees Fahrenheit or above until at least Thursday. Overnight lows will average in the mid to low 70s.
Meteorologist Nathan McGinnis, with the National Weather Service in Wilmington, Ohio, said high heat during this time of year isn't abnormal, but a heat wave this early in the summer is.
"Not to diminish this early heat wave, but we have seen extremes much greater than this. And so I would actually say that should provide more caution to people that what's important about this heat wave is that it's recurring earlier on in the year," McGinnis said.
McGinnis said this heat wave won't have high end impacts, but people should still take precautions. He said people should not leave pets or children inside cars, stay hydrated and wear proper clothing.
McGinnis said besides the heat advisory, an excessive heat warning could be issued if the heat indices rise above 105 degrees. Right now heat indices are hovering between 101 and 104 degrees, McGinnis said.
"So if we do see temperatures maybe getting above 105 or what feels like that temperature, we will issue that," McGinnis said.
McGinnis said he doesn't want people to think this heat is part of a extreme historical phenomenon. He said it's natural to have these high temperatures, but this heat wave is a bit early for this time of year.
McGinnis said the forecast shows that a cold front will hit the Great Lakes region during the weekend and relief from the heat will come Sunday or early next week.
American Electric Power of Ohio Vice President of Customer Experience Lisa Kelso said the company doesn't expect any major power outages during this heat wave.
"Our equipment is designed for all types of weather. So at this point, we're not expecting any outages. We do have crews always at the ready," Kelso said.
Kelso said to prepare for the high heat, customers should plan to use their air conditioning wisely.
"It's one of the biggest users of power in a home. And so if you're a customer, if you're able to turn up your thermostat a few degrees, to whatever feels comfortable and safe for you, that's a great way to save money," Kelso said.
Kelso said people should run their ceiling fans counterclockwise, which will push cool air down. She said people can also close blinds and curtains on the sunny side of the house and run heat-producing appliances during the cooler times of the day.
Columbus Parks and Recreation and Columbus Metropolitan Library announced their community centers and library branches will be open as cooling centers for people seeking an escape from the heat.
