Heat Wave to Hit Chicago Area
Humidity in the Chicago area will start to rise Tuesday as an incoming heat wave will bring temperatures in the 90s and heat index levels as high as 115 degrees, the NBC 5 Storm Team said.
Temperature and Humidity Forecast
According to NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Alicia Roman, temperatures Tuesday will remain in the mid-to-upper 80s. Rising dew point temperatures will increase humidity Tuesday evening, with an extreme heat watch in effect Wednesday and Thursday for all of northeastern Illinois.
In northwest Indiana, a heat advisory will be in place.
“Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values of 105 to 115 degrees possible,” the National Weather Service said. Dew point temperatures Wednesday will hit the mid-70s by afternoon, and stay high even through the evening and overnight hours.
Impact of High Humidity
“That’s just downright miserable with our humidity levels, which will continue Thursday,” Roman said.
Such high humidity levels can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses for those sensitive to heat, the NWS said.
Those who live in rural areas may feel even more humidity during the heat wave due to what’s known as “corn sweat.” When corn releases moisture from its leaves as it naturally cools off, localized humidity is released.
“It’s definitely a thing,” Roman said. “It definitely increases humidity levels, especially in rural areas and houses near cornfields.
Relief from the Heat
According to the NWS, the extreme heat watch will be in place until 10 p.m. Thursday. Late Thursday night, relief from the dangerous heat is expected to come as storm chances arrive.
The “incoming cold front and coverage of storms should be high enough to limit dangerous heat by Friday,” the NWS said, with temperatures back down to the mid 80s.
The stormy pattern will continue at times through the weekend, Roman said.
“Any storm may be severe and contain torrential rainfall,” the NWS warned.
Staying Safe During the Heat Wave
It’s essential to take precautions to stay safe during the heat wave. This includes staying hydrated, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, and checking on vulnerable neighbors and friends.
Additionally, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and to seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicago area is expected to experience a heat wave with temperatures in the 90s and heat index levels as high as 115 degrees. The high humidity levels will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially for those sensitive to heat. It’s essential to take precautions to stay safe during the heat wave and to be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses.
FAQs
Q: What is the heat index, and how is it different from temperature?
A: The heat index is a measure of how hot it feels outside, taking into account both temperature and humidity. It’s different from temperature because it factors in the humidity, which can make the air feel hotter than the actual temperature.
Q: What is “corn sweat,” and how does it affect humidity levels?
A: “Corn sweat” refers to the moisture released by corn as it naturally cools off. This localized humidity can increase humidity levels, especially in rural areas and houses near cornfields.
Q: How can I stay safe during the heat wave?
A: To stay safe during the heat wave, stay hydrated, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, and check on vulnerable neighbors and friends. Additionally, be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur.
Q: When can we expect relief from the heat wave?
A: Relief from the heat wave is expected to come late Thursday night as storm chances arrive, with temperatures back down to the mid 80s by Friday.
