Intense Heat Expected Monday
The hottest weather of the season is expected to arrive Monday, with high temperatures forecast in the lower to middle 90s. These temperatures, combined with high humidity levels could create dangerous heat index values of 103 to 108 across much of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana Monday afternoon. Overnight low temperatures Monday night into Tuesday morning will only be in the lower 70s, providing little relief. In the urban heat island of Chicago, temperatures may remain in the middle to upper 70s overnight.
A weak cold front may sag south from Wisconsin into extreme northern Illinois by Tuesday. The front and accompanying thunderstorms may bring some relief to the northern part of the state, but areas south of I-80 may be in for a second intensely hot day Tuesday. Cloud cover, and the location and timing of the front and thunderstorms could have a big impact on the temperature forecasts for Monday and Tuesday. Check later forecasts for updates.
Monday August 4
| Forecast Low/High Temp | Forecast Maximum Heat Index | Record Low/High Temp and Year | |
| Chicago | 70/95 | 104 | 78/1988 100/1947 |
| Rockford | 69/95 | 107 | 76/1930 99/1947 |
| Pontiac | 69/95 | 105 | 81/1930 101/1916 |
Tuesday August 5
|
|
Forecast Low/High Temp | Forecast Maximum Heat Index | Record Low/High Temp and Year |
| Chicago | 75/88 | 88 | 78/1881 102/1918 |
| Rockford | 71/87 | 91 | 72/1916 104/1918 |
| Pontiac | 75/94 | 101 | 79/1956 104/1918 |
Hot weather safety tips
Before the Heat Wave
· Check NOAA Weather Radio or weather.gov/chicago when planning outdoor activities.
· Have a place to cool off if you do not have air conditioning. Find out if your community has cooling shelters.
· If there are no cooling shelters available, plan to spend some time at a public library, shopping mall, or the home of a neighbor or family member where there is air conditioning.
· Check on the elderly, the infirm, and those living alone.
During the Heat Wave
· Drink plenty of water and juice, even if you’re not thirsty.
· Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and colas.
· Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity.
· Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
· Avoid going out during the hottest times of the day.
· If you must go out, use sunscreen and wear a hat. Remember that sunburn reduces the skin’s ability to provide cooling.
· Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, with windows open slightly if you don’t have air conditioning.
· Keep lights down low or turned off. Avoid using electrical appliances and the oven during the hottest times of the day.
· Take cool baths or showers. Use cool wet towels.
· Eat frequent, small meals. Avoid high protein foods.
· Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle – even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140 degrees within 30 minutes on a hot sunny day.
· The best way to beat the heat is to spend time in air conditioning. Even just two hours per day in air conditioning can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
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