Heat Alerts in Clinton County: Warning, Watch, or Advisory?

Understanding Heat Alerts in Clinton County: Warning, Watch, or Advisory?

Posted June 22, 2025

When temperatures rise and the heat index climbs, the National Weather Service issues alerts to help communities stay safe. But not all alerts mean the same thing. In Clinton County, we often see terms like Heat Advisory, Extreme Heat Watch, or Extreme Heat Warning—and each one signals a different level of risk.

Let’s break it down:

🔴 Extreme Heat Warning – Take Action Now

An Extreme Heat Warning means that extremely dangerous heat is either happening right now or will begin very soon. This is the most serious alert. When this is issued, it means the heat could become life-threatening if you don’t take action.

What to expect:

• Heat index of 110°F or higher for several hours

• Little to no overnight cooling

• High risk of heat stroke or death without protection

What to do:

• Stay indoors with air conditioning

• Check on elderly neighbors and those without A/C

• Limit outdoor activity to early morning or late evening

• Stay hydrated—water, not energy drinks or alcohol

Example: A forecast calling for 112°F heat index from noon to 6 PM with nighttime lows staying above 78°F.

🟠 Extreme Heat Watch – Be Prepared

An Extreme Heat Watch means conditions could become dangerous within the next 24 to 72 hours. It’s not happening yet, but it’s on the way.

What to expect:

• Forecast shows conditions may reach Extreme Heat Warning levels

• Confidence in timing or impact is still developing

What to do:

• Make a plan to stay cool

• Make sure A/C units, fans, and water supplies are ready

• Talk to neighbors, especially those who may need help

Example: A forecast showing high heat and humidity with heat index values above 110°F expected to arrive in two days.

🟡 Heat Advisory – Stay Aware

A Heat Advisory means that hot and humid conditions are expected, and they could be dangerous for some people—especially if exposed for too long.

What to expect:

• Heat index between 100°F and 109°F

• Higher risk for the elderly, infants, those with medical conditions, and people without A/C

What to do:

• Drink plenty of water

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

• Take breaks if you’re outside

• Check on people who are at risk

Example: Forecast predicts heat index of 103°F for most of the afternoon, with mid-70s overnight.

Final Tips:

No matter the alert, heat is a serious hazard. In Clinton County, heat-related illness is preventable—but only if we take it seriously.

• Sign up for Clinton County Emergency Alerts at www.cc-ema.org

• Find a cooling center near you: Cooling Locations

• Review heat safety tips at cc-ema.org/heat

Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Check on others.

Questions? Contact Clinton County EMA at (937) 382-6673 or email us at ema@cc-ema.org.