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.
For the next 12 hours and today's records, see Bloomington weather; for the days ahead, the 10-day forecast.
