Excessive Heat Warning in Effect for Oak Lawn

Brace yourselves. We're in for excessively hot weather that will break the 100 degrees-threshold through the end of the week, and possibly, the hottest Fourth of July in the record books.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an excessive heat warning for the Chicago area in effect through 6 p.m. Friday.

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On Wednesday and Thursday, highs will top out between 100 and 105, with nightime lows only dropping into the 80s Wednesday and Thursday night.  

Peak afternoon heat index readings today through Friday are likely to range from 105 to possibly as high as 115 degrees. Oppressive heat and humidity will continue during the nighttime hours where the heat index will spend most of the night hovering in the 90s.

Know the Terms:

An excessive heat warning means that a prolonged period of dangerously hot temperatures is expected.

The combination of hot temperatures and high humidity may combine to create dangerous situations increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Know these heat disorder symptoms (and how to treat them):

• SUNBURN: Redness and pain. In severe cases swelling of skin, blisters, fever, headaches. First aid: Ointments for mild cases if blisters appear and do not break. If breaking occurs, apply dry sterile dressing. Serious, extensive cases should be seen by physician.

• HEAT CRAMPS: Painful spasms usually in muscles of legs and abdomen possible. Heavy sweating. First aid: Firm pressure on cramping muscles, or gentle massage to relieve spasm. Give sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use.

• HEAT EXHAUSTION: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy. Pulse thready. Normal temperature possible. Fainting and vomiting. First aid: Get victim out of sun. Lay down and loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move victim to air conditioned room. Sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue use. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.

• HEAT STROKE (or sunstroke): High body temperature (106 degrees or higher). Hot dry skin. Rapid and strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. First aid: Move the victim to a cooler environment. Reduce body temperature with cold bath or sponging. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners. If temperature rises again, repeat process. Do not give fluids. Persons on salt restrictive diets should consult a physician before increasing their salt intake.

• IF ANYONE IS OVERCOME BY HEAT, they should be moved to a cool and shaded area. If someone falls to heat stroke, call 9-1-1.

Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks inside a cool area, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Remember 1995.

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