INDIANAPOLIS — The most intense part of this week’s heat wave has arrived. An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect across central Indiana through Thursday evening as heat index values climb between 105 and 110 degrees. Although the heat dominates the story now, a shift toward an active, stormy pattern is on the horizon just in time for the holiday weekend.

Today and Thursday: Peak Heat Danger

A massive high-pressure ridge is positioned over the Midwest. This will block storm development today and Thursday but trap intense heat and moisture near the surface.

Expect mostly sunny skies with highs in the low to mid-90s. Dew points in the upper 70s will push the heat index to as high as 110 degrees in spots this afternoon. Thursday’s conditions will be similar, with a few more clouds possible late as the ridge begins to break down.

Friday and Holiday Weekend: Return of Storms

As the heat ridge flattens Friday, multiple waves of energy will approach from the northwest, ushering in daily chances for scattered showers and thunderstorms through the Fourth of July.

The abundant moisture in the air means any storm could bring heavy rain and locally intense wind gusts known as microbursts. While a full washout is unlikely, have an indoor backup plan for outdoor activities and monitor the Storm Track 8 Weather app for lightning updates.

Looking Ahead: Relief Early Next Week

A weak cold front is forecast to push through Indiana Monday or Tuesday. This will drop temperatures to the mid-80s and deliver much-needed relief from the persistent heat and humidity endured this week.

7-Day Outlook:

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Fire responders say Marion County has seen an “alarming” number of drownings this year

The Indianapolis Fire Department and an Indiana Conservation Officer explain what to know for those planning on being on the water this holiday weekend.

Frank’s Paddlesports Livery is gearing up for one of their busiest weekends this fourth of July.

“This weekend is booked up, not completely sold out, we’d love to have you,” Peter Bloomquist, owner and operator at Frank’s Paddlesports Livery, said.

Visitors will receive a safety course first because with the fun comes some risk.

“Summer is heating up. People are getting in the water, and with that, we are starting to see those accidental drownings. They’re coming from boat-related, they’re coming from people just swimming in retention ponds, and so it’s just imperative that everyone uses some common sense and some safety guidelines if they’re going to get in the water,” Indiana Conservation Officer Lieutenant Angela Goldman said.

This year, Marion County has already seen nine fatal drownings and three non-fatal drownings, where people were successfully resuscitated. First responders call it an astounding number. Last year, the county had six.

“As a father, my heart just breaks for these families who experience loss,” Bryan Fleck, dive commander for the Indianapolis Fire Department said.

Take it from first responders.

“The easiest way and the best way to take care of your loved ones is to wear a life jacket. Wear a PFD,” he said.

“Even if you are a good swimmer, we see drownings all the time with people who say, ‘I don’t understand how this happened. He was a good swimmer.’ hese accidents happen. It’s fast. There are a lot of different things that can happen to a person when they’re in the water. Absoltely number one is wear a life jacket,” Lieutenant Goldman said.

First responders also urge people to limit alcohol and always have someone watching the water.

“If your children are around water, always make sure a responsible adult is watching your children,” Fleck.

Rain is also creating higher water levels.

“Don’t take some of these small, big box store kayaks out onto a swollen river. They’re not made for that, and you’re going to get yourself in trouble,” Lieutenant Goldman said.

Back on the White River, Bloomquist, and his team are ready for a fun Fourth of July weekend, with safety first.

“So, it’s just so important that everyone watches their kids, watches themselves, makes sure that you have those life jackets on and stay safe on the water,” Lieutenant Goldman said.

First responders said activating an app called, what3words is very helpful if you go missing in the water. You provide the 911 dispatcher with three words, and first responders can find you anywhere in the world, in any body of water.

First responders also say the Friends of the White River website is also helpful in navigating the water.

Indiana ranks among the most dangerous states for backyard fireworks use heading into the Fourth of July holiday weekend, according to a new national analysis.

The study, conducted by the Action Network, places Indiana at No. 2 for the highest risk of at-home fireworks accidents, according to a community announcement. Researchers combined trade shipment data, online search trends and state regulations to estimate where incidents are most likely to occur.

Indiana participants face a 2.93% chance of a mishap, injury or property damage during the holiday period — roughly 1 in 34 odds — based on the study’s findings.

Ohio tops the list with a 3.54% risk rate, or about 1 in 28 odds, making it the most hazardous state for backyard fireworks use.

Heavy use and cross-border access drive risk

The announcement highlights Indiana’s strong demand for fireworks, with imports reaching $3.89 per person. That level of consumption contributes to the state’s elevated risk profile.

Indiana also serves as a regional destination for fireworks purchases because of differing laws across state lines. Neighboring Illinois prohibits certain aerial fireworks, and the study indicates that residents often travel to Indiana to buy those items.

That combination of high usage and out-of-state demand contributes to what the announcement describes as a “pyrotechnic juggernaut” within Indiana.

Study blends multiple data sources

The Action Network said it developed its rankings by analyzing three primary factors: shipment volumes, consumer behavior and legal restrictions.

By combining those inputs, researchers estimated the probability of accidents tied to backyard celebrations during the holiday period.

The findings rank all 50 states based on implied risk levels, offering a snapshot of where fireworks-related incidents may be more likely to occur.

This story was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.