Dangerously high heat and humidity is settling into Minnesota.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning through 7 p.m. Friday as heat index values could top 105 on Thursday and close to 100 on Friday.

Austin got a small taste of what’s to come on Wednesday when temperatures reached the mid-80s with heat index values in the low 90s.

The weather service said Wednesday felt like 105 degrees in parts of the state because of the high level of humidity.

Minneapolis reached an air temperature of 93 degrees, St. Cloud 90 and International Falls — the Nation’s Icebox — hit 89.

Thursday and Friday are expected to be even more oppressive before cooler weather arrives Saturday with reduced humidity.

Highs will reach the low to mid-90s, and the weather service warned the heat indexes around 100 degrees will be difficult on people and will raise the threat of heat-related illnesses, especially in children, the elderly and pets.

“Be prepared for the heat and do not overexert yourself when outdoors. Drink plenty of water as well,” the excessive heat warning reads.

Some organizations have set up cooling centers for those without air conditioning. Medical experts say heat exhaustion can happen quickly. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea and an increased heart rate.

The weather service warns that there won’t be much relief from the heat overnight, as temperatures are only expected to fall into the 70s.

The excessive humidity should wane by this weekend when the highs drop to around 88 on Saturday and 83 on Sunday.

The weather service forecasted a slight chance of storms Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights with the best chance on Saturday.

—The Associated Press contributed to this report.