Big-time heat on the way

A heat wave is expected to begin in Eastern Iowa this weekend, lasting through next week. Here are some things to keep in mind while you are trying to cope.

What to expect

Warmer and more humid conditions will start Sunday as temperatures rise above 90 through most of the state. An excessive-heat warning has already been posted; that means the heat and humidity will be exceptionally oppressive over several days. KCRG-TV9 meteorologist Joe Winters says to expect dangerous heat indexes from 100 to 115 degrees during the afternoons, with overnight indexes dropping into only the lower 90s. More on the weekend's weather can be found HERE.

It could be worse

Other parts of the country have already been in a prolonged heat wave: Highs in Pheonix are forecast from 103 to 110 degrees; Dallas expects highs around 102; and the high rollers in Las Vegas will be enduring temps of up to 105.

Meanwhile, at the equator

Highs in Quito, Ecuador, will be in the mid 60s.

Tips for staying cool

Here are some tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer, from the American Red Cross

• Dress lightly -- wear thin, loose, light-colored or white fabrics.
• Drink plenty of fluids -- especially water -- regularly and often. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Take a cool shower, bath or go for a swim at a local pool.
• Try to stay in the coolest room in the house. Better yet, take a trip to an air-conditioned mall, library or some other public building.
• Be sure your air conditioner is in good working order.
• If you have it, use air conditioning at least intermittently to keep the temperature below 90 degrees.
• Use a fan. Fans are most helpful at night to bring in cool air. Remember to open a window to create circulation. Fans directed outward to bring cool air from the basement or fans directed at your body to increase evaporation work better than fans bringing in hot air from the outside.
• Limit your physical activity, as well as your child's, to the coolest times of the day -- early morning or late evening.
• Establish a buddy system where you, a family member, a friend or a local volunteer check on the elderly on a daily basis during a heat wave.
• Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle.
• At a minimum, pets and domestic animals need a shaded and well-ventilated area and access to plenty of cool water.
• Remember that heat combined with humidity increases the likelihood of heat-related illness. An air temperature of 95 combined with 60 percent humidity equals a heat index of 114.
• Warning signs of heat stress: low energy, dizziness, nausea, headache. If you see signs of heat stress, get the person to a cool place as soon as possible.
• Warning signs of severe distress: extra fast heartbeat; confusion; diarrhea; vomiting; red, hot, dry skin; muscle cramps; chest pain; difficulty breathing. If you suspect severe distress, call for medical help immediately.