Weather

'Oppressive' Heat, Nighttime Storms On The Way: Chicago Area Weather

There is a level 1 of 5 severe storm risk on both Saturday and Sunday, and a level 2 of 5 risk on Monday.

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Andrea Earnest, Patch StaffVerified Patch Staff Badge
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ILLINOIS — "Oppressive," possibly dangerous heat is on the way this weekend for the Chicago area, as well as chances for severe weather, according to the National Weather Service.

There is a level 1 of 5 severe storm risk on both Saturday and Sunday, and a level 2 of 5 risk on Monday. All of the risks are mainly for nighttime, according to the current forecast.

The weather service said this "classic mid-July" pattern of heat, humidity and occasionally storm conditions will last from Saturday to Tuesday.

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Locals should stay weather-aware, and check back for forecast updates. It is uncertain what the exact storm track, coverage and timing will be.

Storms could be severe, the storms could be capable of causing flash flooding, according to the weather service.

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Dangerous peak heat index values of 105 are expected on Sunday, and values of 110 on Monday.

Staying safe in the heat

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency offers a list of cooling centers for those who do not have air conditioning.

From IEMA:

  • Know the terms used by the National Weather Service during extreme heat: Heat Wave, Excessive Heat Watch, Heat Advisory, Excessive Heat Warning, and Heat Index.
  • Stay out of the sun. If you must be in the sun, wear sunscreen (at least SPF 15) and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Stay in the shade or under awnings as much as possible.
  • Avoid overexertion and strenuous outdoor activities.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that cover as much skin as possible to prevent sunburn.
  • Consume plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Water, diluted juices, and electrolyte solutions are best. Stay away from carbonated drinks.
  • Avoid alcohol.
  • If you are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, consult your doctor before exposing yourself to heat.
  • Keep lights in your home low or off, keep shades drawn, and avoid using the oven.
  • Keep rooms well ventilated with air conditioners and fans. Keep your windows open if you don't have air conditioning or a fan.Note: Fans will not prevent heat-related illness when the temperature is in the high 90s.
  • Cool down with cool, wet towels and periodic cool baths or showers.
  • Take advantage of cooling centers, public pools, and air-conditioned stores and malls during periods of extreme heat.
  • Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness.
  • Closely monitor children, the elderly, or those who require special care during periods of intense summer heat.
  • Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes. On a hot day, temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140ºF-190ºF within 30 minutes.
  • Make a special effort to check on your neighbors during a heat wave, especially if they are seniors, families with young children, people with special needs, or living alone.
  • Seniors and others who may be sensitive to extreme heat should contact friends, neighbors, or relatives periodically throughout the day.
  • Seek help if you feel symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

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