Omaha and nearby areas in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa are about to face extreme heat this weekend. With temperatures expected to feel as high as 107°F, the National Weather Service has issued alerts to help people stay safe. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s coming and how you can protect yourself.
Heat Advisories in Place for Friday and Saturday
The National Weather Service has issued Heat Advisories for both Friday and Saturday, active from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on both days. This means people in Omaha, Lincoln, Norfolk, Council Bluffs, and other nearby cities along and east of U.S. Highway 81 should be ready for very hot and humid weather.
The heat index, which measures how hot it feels due to humidity, is expected to reach between 100 and 107 degrees Fahrenheit. That makes it very risky to be outside, especially during the hottest hours.
Why This Heat Is So Dangerous
Extreme heat can lead to health problems like:
Heat exhaustion – heavy sweating, tiredness, nausea, and dizziness
Heat stroke – confusion, fainting, very high body temperature
Both conditions are serious and can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. That’s why officials are asking people to be extra careful during this time.
Simple Ways to Stay Safe
Here are a few easy things you can do to beat the heat:
Drink water often even if you’re not thirsty
Stay inside during peak heat hours (11 a.m. – 8 p.m.)
Wear light cotton clothes and avoid dark colours
Avoid outdoor exercise or heavy work
Use fans or air conditioning if possible
Check on elderly people and children
Never leave pets or children in cars, even for a short time
Cooling Centers May Be Available
In cities like Omaha and Lincoln, cooling centers may open to help people stay cool. These are public places like libraries, malls, and community halls with air conditioning. They’re free to use and open to everyone during the heat advisory. You can find the nearest one by checking local government or news websites.
When Will the Weather Improve?
The good news is that this extreme heat won’t last forever. By Sunday, temperatures are expected to come down to the upper 80s or low 90s, and the humidity will drop, making it feel a lot better.
Still, the National Weather Service says more heat advisories may be needed next week if the high temperatures continue.
Stay Alert and Take Precautions
This weekend’s weather in Omaha is no joke. With heat index values above 100°F, it’s important to stay cool, stay hydrated, and keep an eye out for signs of heat stress. Help others if you can, especially the elderly and kids. A little care can go a long way in preventing heat-related illnesses.
