Triple Digit Temps: Heat Index Could Reach 110 Degrees Today

Temperatures will soar into the triple digits today as the heat wave smothering southeast Michigan continues.

Thursday is expected to be the hottest day of the heat wave so far, according to the National Weather Service, which has issued an excessive heat warning in effect until 10 p.m. High temperatures will make a run toward 100 degrees, and high humidity will help boost heat index values to between 105 and 110 stifling degrees this afternoon and evening, the forecasting agency says.

"The heat wave this week is expected to be of the longest duration since July of 1995," the National Weather Service reports. "Consecutive days of high heat and humidity with limited relief at night will bring dangerous conditions for residents of southeastern Michigan."

The weather service recommends taking precautions, such as drinking more water, limiting outside exposure, staying in the shade, wearing light and loose-fitting clothing, taking frequent breaks and resting in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

• For information on hot-weather pet safety, .
• To learn the signs of heat-related illnesses, .
• For 5 ways to keep kids busy and cool, .

An air quality alert has also been issued for Thursday, spurring another Ozone Action Day. Residents are encouraged to refrain from refueling vehicles, using gasoline-powered lawn equipment and using charcoal lighter fluid. Children and adults with respiratory diseases such as asthma should also limit outdoor exertion, says the weather service.