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A heat wave is raising temperatures across much of Minnesota into the 90s this week, and possibly past 100 degrees. It’s expected to continue through the end of the week into August.

Wondering how to stay cool? What precautions to take outside in the heat? Here are some tips on what you can do to stay safe during an excessive heat wave.

Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

 can develop after exposure to high temperatures and inadequate intake of fluids, according to the 

. The elderly, children, those with high blood pressure and people working or exercising in a hot environment are most prone to this condition.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, drink cool beverages, move to an air-conditioned environment, take a cool shower and wear lightweight clothing.

 is the most serious heat-related illness, occurring when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. It can be life-threatening or cause permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

If someone is experiencing a heat stroke, CDC advises seeking immediate medical assistance. In the meantime, move the person to a location with shade and use cool cloths or water to lower their body temperature. Only give them water if they are awake and alert enough to swallow.

For homeless people or those without access to air conditioning, cooling centers are a must. Many city-owned buildings offer cooling center hours in the summer, such as libraries or recreation centers. The Salvation Army will also offer cooling center hours at seven of their Twin Cities metro locations. 

Cooling centers are generally open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at the following locations. 

Ramsey and Hennepin County offer interactive maps with cooling centers available. Explore the Ramsey County map 

St. Paul Public Library Director Maureen Hartman said libraries are often overlooked as cooling centers, but encouraged those in need to go to Ramsey or Hennepin County locations during the heatwave. 

“It shouldn’t be, but it is a secret libraries are cooling centers, but they always have been. Library services continue to evolve, and they evolve with the needs of our community. As the heat kicks up, it is a really good reminder for people to check out their local public library,” she said. 

Hartman said people should not be worried about overstaying their visit – they are allowed to use the library from open to close. For the most updated hours of your branch, check their website. 

Young people, ages 18 to 24, seeking housing can contact Hennepin County Shelter Hotline at 

. The Youth Services Network  offers resources and bed availability at 

. Youth ages 16 to 24 can contact Avenues for Youth, a local provider, is available at 

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Here’s what you should know and do when temperatures get into the 90s or even hit 100 degrees.

We hear from several people serving food, gardening, caring for horses and watching out for people who may be injured in the excessive heat this week. 

Minnesotans keep working through the heat

A boy plugs his nose as he dives backward into the water

Ben Hovland | MPR News

A group of girls do back flips into a lake. 

Minnesota heat wave: Tips to stay cool and safe during extreme heat

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