Chicago, Illinois – Chicago and surrounding Cook County communities are entering a prolonged stretch of dangerous summer heat, with triple-digit heat index values expected each afternoon through Wednesday. The combination of oppressive humidity and unusually warm nights will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for vulnerable residents who lack access to air conditioning.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, an Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect from noon Monday through 10 p.m. Wednesday for northern, central and southern Cook County. The warning includes Chicago, Evanston, Oak Park, Cicero, Schaumburg, Des Plaines, Palatine, Northbrook, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Calumet City, Park Forest, Oak Forest, La Grange, Lemont and surrounding communities.
Heat index values are expected to reach around 105 degrees each afternoon, while oppressive overnight warmth will provide little opportunity for homes and buildings to cool. Several consecutive days of hot, humid conditions will increase cumulative heat stress, making prolonged outdoor exposure increasingly dangerous.
The greatest risk will be for older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers and anyone without reliable air conditioning. Residents should drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon, wear lightweight clothing and spend time in air-conditioned buildings whenever possible. Check on relatives, neighbors and friends who may need assistance, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles, where temperatures can become fatal within minutes.
The City of Chicago encourages residents to call 311 to request wellness checks for elderly friends or family members or to obtain information about the nearest cooling center.
The Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through 10 p.m. Wednesday, and additional heat-related alerts may be issued if dangerous conditions persist. Continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local officials throughout the week.
