A dangerous stretch of heat and humidity hits South Bend and Michiana Wednesday and Thursday, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s and heat index values near (or above) 100°. First Alert Weather Days are in effect as heat safety becomes critical, followed by strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday night into Thursday with damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, heavy downpours, and small hail possible. Conditions improve Friday with lower humidity and highs back in the 80s.