Extreme Heat Warnings Extended To Rest Of Chicago Area, Heat Will Continue Into Thursday

The current heat wave will now continue through at least Thursday, the National Weather Service shared.

The entire Chicago area, rather than just Cook County, is now under an extreme heat warning. The warning has also been extended until midnight on Thursday night.

Dangerous heat with heat index values around 105 are expected each afternoon, the weather service said. Thunderstorms may bring some relief from the heat on Thursday afternoon or evening.

There is also a chance of storms Friday into Saturday. Heat on Friday will depend on storm coverage, the weather service said.

According to weather service data, Joliet and Peru topped the charts for Monday's maximum heat indices. Both towns had a heat index value of 108.

Dew points continue to be in the "oppressive" range on Tuesday, according to the weather service. Dew points are between 75 and 80 degrees.

"When there is more moisture in the air, there is less room for the air to hold additional water vapor molecules, so sweat evaporates less efficiently and isn't able to cool the human body down as much," according to the weather service.

Heat Safety

The weather service advises staying indoors in air conditioning whenever possible during a heat wave. You should also remain hydrated by drinking water, and you should check on those most vulnerable to heat, including children and seniors.

If you have to go outside, "go early or late in the day, and dress in light-colored clothing," the weather service said.

If you are looking for a cooling center, you can find a list of sites across the state here.

By county:

• Cook County
• DuPage County
• Kane County
• Kendall County
• Lake County
• McHenry County
• Will County