First responders conducted multiple rescues along Chicago's lakefront Monday. (Chicago Fire Media)

Chicago set a record-high temperature on Monday, as a heat wave continues to grip the region.

The mercury hit 97 degrees at O'Hare Airport, Chicago's official weather station, topping the previous high of 96 degrees set back in 1887 and tied in 1957. That's 16 degrees above normal, with high humidity adding to the misery.

Tuesday and Wednesday promise more of the same, according to the National Weather Service. But relief is on the way, at least along the lakefront, where a cooldown is coming Thursday and Friday, before the blast furnace cranks back up Saturday.

(National Weather Service)

Chicago has multiple cooling centers open, and people can also escape the heat at public libraries and Park District fieldhouses. 

Cooling centers are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the following locations:

— Englewood Center, 1140 W. 79th St.
— Garfield Center, 10 S. Kedzie Ave.
— King Center, 4314 S. Cottage Grove
— North Area, 845 W. Wilson Ave.
— South Chicago, 8650 S. Commercial Ave.
— Trina Davila, 4312 W. North Ave.

Chicago Park District pools and splash pads opened Monday, though some locations experienced operational issues, so check before heading out (click here for pool locations and contact info). 

Chicago beaches are open for swimming 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., when lifeguards are on duty.

It's already been a deadly start to summer, with first responders performing multiple rescues in Lake Michigan Monday. There have been two drownings and one person is still missing in the water. 

The Chicago Fire Department is urging people to wear life vests when on jet skis or boats, even if close to shore. 

Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 |  [email protected]