Health Officials Continue to Monitor Local Weather Conditions
Created on Tuesday, 26 July 2011 14:56
Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-221-2463
Even though the National Weather Service cancelled its Excessive Heat Warning for Indianapolis Sunday afternoon, the Marion County Public Health Department continues to watch the local forecast, resources at the ready, in case another round of dangerously hot weather returns this week.
Local health officials do not believe conditions this week will reach those felt last week. The weather service issues an Excessive Heat Warning within 12 hours of the onset of a heat index of at least 105°F for more than 3 hours per day for 2 consecutive days, or a heat index of more than 115°F for any period of time.
“Although we are in a monitoring mode now, we have our community partners and our combined resources ready to activate if we need them,” said John T. Althardt, spokesman for the Marion County Public Health Department.
During last week’s heat wave, community centers, churches and neighborhood organizations offered their facilities and extended operating hours to provide safe, convenient locations with air-conditioned environments. The community was encouraged to use Indy Parks community centers, pools and spray parks, too.
“If anyone has questions or concerns about the heat, the health department will maintain its 221-2415 call center through the end of the week. This is the number to call for non-emergency heat related information.
During last week, more than 240 calls were made to the call center. In addition, 96 individuals sought heat related treatment at Indianapolis area hospitals. This year, three Marion County residents have died due to heat exposure.
