Chicago is preparing for another round of hazardous heat and humidity as early as this week, according to the National Weather Service.
The city is under a hazardous weather outlook that extends through Thursday, with the potential for dangerous heat index values exceeding 100 degrees.
Multiple thunderstorms are expected to accompany this heat wave, as noted in an alert issued on Sunday.
On Sunday, temperatures are forecasted to reach a high of 89 degrees, with a heat index that could feel like 100 degrees.
The heat intensifies on Monday and Tuesday, with expected highs of 94 degrees and 92 degrees, respectively.
The humidity levels combined with these temperatures could result in real-feel temperatures soaring to 110 degrees on both days.
However, it may be slightly cooler near the lake on Tuesday.
Rain showers are also anticipated on Monday and Tuesday.
The oppressive heat is expected to decrease following a storm system that is predicted to roll through the area on Tuesday night into Wednesday.
Wednesday will see periodic storms, which will usher in cooler temperatures, while Thursday’s forecast calls for a high of 78 degrees along with lower humidity levels.
This impending heat wave is part of a troubling trend, marking the latest period of extreme temperatures this summer in Chicago.
Last week, the city was under an extreme heat watch, with residents experiencing the highest temperatures due to the urban heat effect.
As of mid-July, Chicago was experiencing its fifth warmest summer in 154 years, according to local meteorologist Bill Snyder.
With this heat comes the risk of heat-related illnesses, and officials are urging residents to stay alert.
Signs of heat-related conditions, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, should not be ignored.
Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, hot, dry skin or excessive sweating, seizures, and a very high body temperature, according to information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
If someone exhibits signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately.
Move the individual to a shaded area and remove their clothing.
Cooling methods such as ice baths, wetting the skin, applying cold cloths, and placing ice packs on key areas like the head and neck can be life-saving.
Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be fatal without prompt intervention.
On the other hand, symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, decreased urination, and elevated body temperature, according to the CDC.
For those seeking relief from the high temperatures, the city operates several cooling centers.
These community service locations are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, including centers like Englewood Center, Garfield Center, Dr. Martin Luther King Center, North Area Center, South Chicago Center, and Trina Davila Center.
Additionally, 21 senior centers across the city will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Various public facilities such as Park District locations, police stations, public libraries, and City College buildings will also remain accessible to the public during their regular hours.
For those concerned about friends or family members, wellbeing checks can be requested through the 311 hotline or the 311 app.
During this heat wave, all Park District beaches will remain open for public use, alongside outdoor pools and splash pads.
As Chicago faces another extreme heat event, officials encourage residents to take precautions and stay safe.
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