An extreme heat warning was issued for central, northern and southern Cook County for the third consecutive day as heat indices are expected to reach over 100 degrees, weather officials said.
National Weather Service officials stated the warning continues Thursday morning and is set to expire at 7 p.m.
In response to the weather service’s heat advisory, Chicago Public Schools canceled all of Thursday’s outdoor activities or moved them inside if possible, according to a news release. These activities included physical education and athletics practices.
Wednesday, the extreme heat from downtown to Chicago’s Far South Side disrupted traffic as bridges buckled under the heat, officials said.
The dangerous hot conditions are expected to climb to 100 to 105 degrees with the heat index. At those temperatures, the threat of heat-related illnesses increases. People are urged to limit time outdoors, wear loose clothing, take breaks and to stay hydrated, officials said. People should also limit alcohol consumption while braving the high heat.
Current morning conditions at O’Hare International Airport are partly cloudy at 80 degrees and are similar farther south at Midway Airport, according to the National Weather Service.
On Thursday, there is a 40% chance of thunderstorms after 1 p.m., with highs in the low 90s expected, officials said. The chance of storms extends into the night hours at 40% mainly after 1 a.m. Friday, officials said.
Temperatures overnight are expected to be in the low 70s with wind tapering between 5 to 10 mph, officials said.
The chance of storms increases to 50% on Friday, mainly after 10 a.m., with overnight temperatures in the low 70s are expected.
A break from the excessive heat was expected this coming weekend, when highs in the low 80s and upper 70s are expected.