(Pixabay)
There’s hot and then there’s extreme heat. It’s the potential for the latter, with a possible triple-digit heat index forecast for Saturday, that poses a health concern to vulnerable Chicagoans.
Temperatures in the 90s, coupled with oppressive levels of humidity, could make it feel like 100 degrees outside on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Similar conditions could persist into midweek.
Air quality continues to be affected by wildfires in the western U.S. and Canada, creating hazy skies. People may even smell smoke, the agency said.
Chicago officials are encouraging people to take advantage of cooling resources, including the Chicago Park District’s outdoor pools and splash pads, and public libraries for air conditioning. Well-being checks can be requested via the CHI311 app, visiting 311.chicago.gov or calling 311.
The city will issue an extreme heat warning if the heat index is expected to reach 105 degrees to 110 degrees for at least two consecutive days. The current long-range forecast is not predicting such levels.
While a stray storm is possible this afternoon, most areas will remain dry. Saturday, however, presents increased chances for scattered storms during the afternoon & evening. A few of these storms could pack a gusty punch, with a severe risk (1-2 on scale of 5). #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/0e5W0r4k0i
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) July 23, 2021
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
