Heat — Hamilton, Nebraska

2009-06-22 to 2009-06-24 · Hamilton, Nebraska

Wider weather episode

A strong upper level ridge anchored across the central U.S. allowed for hot air to build into the region, and along with surface dewpoints in the upper 60s and lower 70s, made for muggy conditions. Heat indices across the area reached into the 100 to 110 degree range on the 23rd, which lead to the deaths of approximately 4000 head of cattle. The afternoon high temperatures reached into the mid to upper 90s, which was a change from the previous few weeks, where highs had generally been in the 70s and 80s. The cooler than normal high temperatures had prevented the cattle from properly shedding their winter coats, which aided in their overheating.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 184934. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.