Elkhart County under heat watch starting Monday

June 16—GOSHEN — A heat advisory for Elkhart County and surrounding areas goes into effect Monday.

Meteorologist Chris Roller of the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana said Sunday that a heat warning typically is issued when dangerously hot conditions are expected during a 24- to 72-hour period.

“This one starts on Monday and goes through Friday,” he said.

Under heat watch, heat indices are generally expected to be between 75 and 105 degrees.

“This simply creates an environment where there is no respite for those exhausted by the heat,” he said, adding that it is especially difficult for children and the elderly when air conditioning is not available.

Under these conditions, Roller said it is best to limit outdoor activities between 10am and 8pm, take breaks if possible, wear light, colorful clothing and take advantage of air conditioning whenever possible, in libraries, supermarkets. and wherever it is available.

Being proactive in dealing with the heat is the best approach, he said.

“Just plan it instead of trying to do it on a whim,” he said.

Roller added that when it comes to leaving children and elderly people in the car, a “look before you lock” approach is the way to prevent this from happening.

“Temperatures can rise quickly inside cars,” he added.

To learn more, visit www.weather.gov/safety/heat.

Steve Wilson is news editor at The Goshen News. You can reach him at steve.wilson@goshennews.com.