Yesterday’s temperature of 98 degrees measured at O’Hare International Airport was the hottest August 23 on record in the city of Chicago according to National Weather Service data. The previous record of 97 degrees has stood for 76 years since 1947.
Unfortunately, that heat is set to continue with another day of soaring temperatures due to the heat wave before a strong to severe storm and cold front this evening brings relief dropping temperatures down to the high 70s tomorrow.
“With the end of the oppressive heat comes the threat of a few storms late this PM and evening. If storms develop, they’d likely become severe, with a threat of damaging winds and large hail” wrote the National Weather Service.
With the second day of this expected two-day heat wave causing soaring temperatures, Chicago Public Schools canceled outdoor sports and moved recess inside across the city
Not only did yesterday break a daily heat record but a heat index of 116 degrees recorded at O’Hare was the second-highest heat index on record for the city.
The only higher heat index on record was 118 degrees on July 13, 1995, when over 700 people died as a result of the historic heat wave.
National Weather Service on Tuesday wrote “more than 90 record high temperatures are forecast to be set over the next three days” predicting temperatures to be more than 15 degrees above normal for this time of the year.”
“It’s not going to be comfortable to be outside for a long period of time. Definitely hot, humid and muggy out there. Some might say oppressively hot” said Zachary Yack, a National Weather Service meteorologist.
The heat, humidity, and poor air quality could pose serious health concerns and everybody is encouraged to limit time in the sun, wear loose, light clothing, and stay hydrated, especially those working outdoors.
As a result, the city’s cooling centers will stay open until 7 p.m. rather than their usual closing time of 5 p.m.
Here are the locations of the city of Chicago’s designated cooling centers:
- Englewood Center, 1140 W. 79th St.
- Garfield Center, 10 S. Kedzie Ave.
- King Center, 4314 S. Cottage Grove
- North Area Center, 845 W. Wilson Ave.
- South Chicago Center, 8650 S. Commercial Ave.
- Trina Davila Center, 4312 W. North Ave.
Luckily the heat wave is expected to subside by tomorrow but despite potential storms, the city will likely remain hot this evening.
As ever, you can head to the National Weather Service website for all the latest weather forecasts and warnings.
Stay safe out there!
[Featured image from Shutterstock]