Chicago, Illinois – Extreme heat will blanket Chicago and much of northern Illinois starting Wednesday morning, sending heat index values soaring as high as 110 degrees in Cook County and up to 115 degrees in surrounding regions. Residents should prepare for dangerous conditions through Thursday evening, with limited relief even at night in the city.
According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Heat Watch is in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday through 7 p.m. Thursday for Chicago, all of Cook County, and neighboring counties including DuPage, Kane, Will, Lake, and McHenry. Heat indices may stay above 90 degrees overnight, particularly in downtown Chicago, heightening the risk of heat-related illnesses and straining power grids and public services.
Communities such as Rockford, Joliet, Aurora, and Kankakee are under the same alert, with public safety officials urging residents to avoid outdoor activities, seek air conditioning, and stay hydrated. Check on vulnerable neighbors and relatives. The city of Chicago is opening cooling centers and offers wellness checks via 311. Schools and daycares may adjust outdoor activities; local agencies are monitoring for possible service disruptions and road issues due to heat warping.
This round of extreme temperatures follows similar events from the 2021 heat wave, but the extended duration and high overnight temperatures present added risks. Keep electronics charged in case of outages and limit time outside. Pets should also be protected from the heat.
The Extreme Heat Watch remains in effect until Thursday night, with additional warnings possible if high humidity lingers. Continue monitoring official updates for the latest on city services and any extended advisories.
