Heat Wave Could Hit IL Next Week, Temps In 90s For Chicago Area

ILLINOIS — With a mostly dry weekend expected — and no sign of the severe weather that produced 14 tornadoes in the Chicago area last week — residents can expect a warm, sunny weekend, but even hotter, more humid conditions could be headed our way.

On Friday, the National Weather Service warned that chances for a heat wave next week are increasing, and advised residents to make a plan to stay safe if hot temperatures hit.

"We may be close to the 'hotbed' in stormy activity, however, so heat and humidity aren't a guarantee," NWS Chicago tweeted. But if things do heat up, Thursday and Friday are likely to be the most uncomfortable days.

Temperatures are expected to hit the low 90s by Wednesday and Thursday. Here's a look at the forecast:

• Monday: Sunny, high near 86
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 88
• Wednesday: Chance of showers and storms but mostly sunny, high near 91
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 92

The weather service offered these tips for staying safe in the heat:

• Limit outdoor activities
• Drink plenty of water
• Wear light clothing
• Wear sunscreen
• Work outdoors early or very late in the day

If you find yourself without air conditioning in extreme heat, here's where you can find a cooling center near you.

'Seasonably warm weekend'

While some spotty storms could hit this weekend, NWS said, "it by no means looks like a washout. In fact, most of the weekend will be rain free and seasonably warm."

There is a beach hazards warning for parts of Lake Michigan, with dangerous swimming conditions along northwestern Indiana beaches.

There is a slight chance of storms for mid- to late afternoon Saturday on Sunday, with highs in the mid-80s.