Heat — La Crosse, Wisconsin

2012-07-02 to 2012-07-06 · La Crosse, Wisconsin

Event narrative

Two people died as a result of heat related causes. A woman died in her house that did not have air conditioning and an elderly man passed away after returning home from a walk in the heat. At least 25 cases of heat related illnesses were reported. The La Crosse automated weather observing system recorded maximum apparent temperatures of 100 to 111 each day, including 110 on July 4th, 111 on July 5th, and 109 on July 6th. Milk production was down around 25% for area farmers as cows drank more water and ate less feed leading to the drop. Also, some campgrounds saw a dip in business as potential campers stayed at home.

Wider weather episode

Five people died from the effects of a long duration heatwave that gripped western Wisconsin from July 2nd through July 7th. Two of the deaths occurred in La Crosse County with one each in Juneau, Richland and Vernon Counties. Numerous people were also treated for heat related illnesses. The highest apparent temperatures during the heatwave ranged from 100 to 110 each day. Two record daily high temperatures were set at La Crosse (La Crosse County). Other impacts from the heat included stimulating algae growth on area waterways which depleted oxygen levels leading to fish kills. Milk production was down during the heat as well, as cows starting drinking more water and ate less feed leading to the drop. Campgrounds also reported a downturn in business as potential campers remained at home and numerous roads buckled and had to be repaired.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 397596. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.