A heat wave is descending upon Illinois.
Some days this week could see highs in the low- to mid-90s, with forecast heat index values near 100 degrees. Overnight lows in the mid-70s won't provide much relief.
We'll start the week with a forecast high of 89 degrees on Monday, according to the National Weather Service in Chicago. Mostly sunny skies are expected on Tuesday, with a high of 91 and a heat index of 96 degrees.
The sunshine will continue on Wednesday and Thursday with highs of 93 both days. Those days could also see heat index values hovering around 100 degrees.
The forecast high for Friday is 92 degrees.
A cold front is expected to move across the Great Lakes sometime Friday, according to the Storm Prediction Center, which will bring a chance for severe storms. The cold front will also result in highs of just 81 degrees both Saturday and Sunday.
In the meantime, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips on how to stay safe in the heat:
- Drink more fluids, specifically those that don't contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar.
- Stay indoors, in an air-conditioned place, if possible.
- Take a cool shower or bath.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
- Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours, and cut down on exercise, if possible.
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