Severe Weather and Heat Wave Hit MN State Fair

The Minnesota State Fair has been significantly impacted by a severe heat wave, with temperatures feeling as high as 115 degrees Fahrenheit due to oppressive humidity. The National Weather Service has issued heat warnings and advisories across multiple Midwestern states, prompting cities to open cooling centers and offer free rides to air-conditioned locations. Emergency medical teams have been busy treating heat-related illnesses, and extra health care workers have been stationed at the fair. In addition to the extreme heat, a severe storm with heavy rain, lightning, and wind gusts exceeding 40 MPH has caused more than 28,000 power outages and led fair officials to temporarily close rides and attractions. As the heat wave is expected to shift to the South and East in the coming days, residents are advised to stay hydrated and seek shelter as needed.