Fastpitch Excessive Heat Procedure

The purpose of this policy is to help protect Johnson County Park and Recreation District participants, patrons, and staff from excessive heat temperatures. It must be understood that temperatures and weather can be unpredictable and despite all reasonable efforts there is no guarantee warning(s) can be announced in advance.  

Game day information can be found by dialing 913-686-6030 (must dial area code).


The Heat Index

The combination of the temperature and humidity % results in an apparent temperature which gives an idea of what it would feel like under normal-to-low humidity conditions.   Excessive and dangerous heat indices occur mostly during the summer months with the abundance of moisture and increased heat.

  • Caution - Heat Index of 85 to 94 (physical activity may cause fatigue)
  • Extreme Caution - Heat Index of 95 to 104 (possible heat cramps and/or heat exhaustion with prolonged exposure)
  • Danger - Heat index of 105 and higher (possible heat stroke with prolonged exposure; heat exhaustion and heat cramps likely)
Heat Index Graph - NWS

National Weather Service Hazardous Weather Risks

  • Outlook - A Hazardous Weather Outlook is issued daily to indicate that a hazardous weather or hydrologic event may occur in the next several days. The outlook will include information about potential severe thunderstorms, heavy rain or flooding, winter weather, extremes of heat or cold, etc., that may develop over the next 7 days with an emphasis on the first 24 hours of the forecast. It is intended to provide information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event (emergency management agencies,).
  • Advisory (Caution) - An advisory is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent, or likely. Advisories are for "less serious" conditions than warnings that may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised could lead to situations that may threaten life or property. NWS may activate weather spotters in areas affected by advisories to help them better track and analyze the event.
  • Watch (Extreme Caution) - A watch is used when the risk of a hazardous weather or hydrologic event has increased significantly, but its occurrence, location, or timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so those who need to set their plans in motion can do so. A watch means that hazardous weather is possible. People should have a plan of action in case a storm threatens and they should listen for later information and possible warnings especially when planning travel or outdoor activities. NWS may activate weather spotters in areas affected by watches to help them better track and analyze the event.
  • Warning (Danger) - A warning is issued when a hazardous weather or hydrologic event is occurring, imminent, or likely. A warning means weather conditions pose a threat to life or property. People in the path of the storm need to take protective action. NWS may activate weather spotters in areas affected by warnings to help them better track and analyze the event.

"National Weather Service Glossary" National Weather Service. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. June 25, 2009.

JCPRD Response to Conditions

  • Heat Advisory/Watch: When the heat index is between 95 degrees and 105 degrees -  Game times will be shortened 10 minutes and water breaks must be taken by participants between every half inning.  Staff will keep a close eye on facility visitors.  Staff will be watching for symptoms of heat cramps, exhaustion, or strokes.  If any of the symptoms are noticeable among players, coaches, or fans, please notify the staff immediately.  When notified, 1st aid procedures will be followed.
  • Heat Warning: When the heat index is above 105 degrees - All games will be cancelled and rescheduled for a later date. Same procedures as if the game was cancelled due to rain or other inclement weather.