CHICAGO (CBS) — Chicago Record temperatures could occur on Mondayand with highs in the 90s every day this week, there will be an increased risk of heat-related illness, especially if you spend a lot of time outside.
A “heat dome” of high pressure is keeping hot temperatures over parts of the Midwest and Northeast. Therefore, highs are expected to be in the 90s through Sunday.
Experts say people should avoid outdoor activities if possible and take precautions to stay safe.
Dr. Julie Holland, vice president of pediatric primary care at Advocate Children’s Hospital and the Chicagoland Children’s Health Alliance, said if you do go out, it’s better to go early in the morning or in the late afternoon or evening hours , when the temperature does not drop. be just as hot.
What are the signs of heat illness?
When outside in extreme heat, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid drinking sugary sodas and juices or caffeinated beverages, which don’t help nearly as much in preventing dehydration.
You should also have somewhere indoors to cool down so you can escape the heat.
“The warmer it gets, the more careful people need to be,” she said.
People should also watch for signs of heat illness, such as dizziness, dehydration, fatigue, confusion, headache, nausea, heavy sweating, vomiting, or a strong and rapid pulse.
“All of these things are actually emergency warning signs. So if that happens, those people should quickly get to a cool place and seek emergency medical care,” Holland said.
Anyone outdoors should also apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every two hours. If you are swimming, reapply sunscreen after getting out of the water.
Where are Chicago’s cooling centers?
The City of Chicago’s cooling zones, located in the city’s six community service centers, have been activated. The cold rooms are open all week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors are required to wear a face covering in the cold rooms. The Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) will provide free face coverings to guests who do not have one and wish to use the cold rooms.
- Englewood Center – 1140 W. 79th Street
- Garfield Center – 10 S. Kedzie Ave. (24 hours)
- 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.
During operating hours, residents can also find relief at any of the Chicago Public Library locations and Chicago Park District fieldhouses, as well as pools and splash pads located throughout the city.
When temperatures rise to extreme levels, it is important to check on family members, neighbors, seniors and other vulnerable populations. If you are unable to make contact, you can request a welfare check by downloading the CHI311 app, visiting 311.chicago.gov or calling 3-1-1. If there is a medical emergency due to a heat-related illness, call 9-1-1.
