What started as an Extreme Heat Watch issued early Friday, July 24, has been repeatedly extended and upgraded by the National Weather Service's Twin Cities/Chanhassen office, which posted a full Extreme Heat Warning for the Bloomington area that afternoon. The office has since re-issued the warning five more times as the dangerous stretch dragged on, most recently Sunday morning, July 26, running through 9 p.m. that night.
Sunday's forecast called for a high near 97 degrees in Bloomington with the heat index — how it actually feels once humidity is factored in — climbing to 109 degrees, firmly in the range where heat stroke becomes a real risk for anyone spending much time outdoors. The warning is set to lift at 9 p.m. Sunday.
The city has been urging residents to take the heat seriously, telling people to drink water and replace lost salt and minerals with sports drinks, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, skip strenuous exercise between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., and check on neighbors who may be more vulnerable — especially older adults and anyone without reliable air conditioning. The city also warns never to leave kids or pets in a parked car, even briefly.
For anyone needing a place to cool off, the city points residents to Hennepin County's interactive map of cooling spots around the metro. Residents with questions can also call the city directly at 952-563-8700.
Relief looks to be on the way after Sunday: forecasters expect the heat to ease into next week, with highs dropping to the low 90s Monday and closer to 90 degrees by Tuesday and Wednesday.