Forecasters warn of scorching heat into weekend

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis says we will see the hottest temperatures so far this year Thursday through Saturday. You can expect afternoon highs in the mid 90s with humidity in the mid 70s, which will make it feel like is around 100 degree.

Emergency officials are warning that the extreme heat can be especially dangerous for older people. You are encouraged to check in with your friends, family and neighbors daily.

The city of Columbus will be operating a cooling station at Donner Center on 22nd Street, from 8 to 5 Thursday and Friday.

A cooling station is a place where those who don’t have air conditioning can go to cool off. Food, showers, and sleeping areas are not available.

The city says animals will also be allowed to cool off at the center with their owners and crates will be available.

The Indiana Department of Environmental Management has declared an Air Quality Action Day again Thursday for our area.

An Air Quality Action Day means that the weather is expected to produce conditions where high levels of ground-level ozone emissions may exceed federally mandated standards.

High ozone near the ground acts a lung irritant. It can cause coughing and breathing difficulties for sensitive populations. Children, the elderly, anyone with heart conditions or with respiratory disease, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure Thursday.

The alert is in effect until midnight.