Parts of north central Illinois, northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana are under a hazardous weather outlook, with thunderstorms, flooding and excessive heat possible, according to the National Weather Service.

Local heat indices may exceed 100 degrees on Wednesday and Thursday. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Brett Borchardt, a senior meteorologist at the NWS, said this week could have a “ring of fire” effect. That’s when hot weather combines with humidity to create severe storms. But it likely won’t be as severe as the storms earlier this month.

When temperatures rise, City of Chicago officials advise residents to check on those vulnerable to heat-related illnesses or those who aren’t able to access air conditioning. Young children, the elderly and those who are physically or mentally ill are at greater risk of heat-related instances, according to village officials.

Staying out of the sun, wearing loose clothing, drinking water and avoiding outdoor activities are a few ways to beat the heat as temperatures climb, according to Oak Park health officials.

Ways to prepare for extreme heat include covering windows with shades, using window reflectors, adding insulations, using an attic fan or installing window air conditioners, according to Ready.gov.

Signs of heat stroke include a high body temperature, typically above 103 degrees, red, hot or dry skin without sweat, a strong pulse and dizziness, confusion or unconsciousness.

West Side cooling centers include:

Garfield Center
10 S. Kedzie Ave.
Chicago, IL 60612

The city’s libraries, park district field houses or City Colleges of Chicago locations are also open as cooling centers.

West Side libraries include:

Austin Branch
5615 W. Race Ave.
Monday and Wednesday, 12 – 8 p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m.

Douglass Branch
3353 W. 13th Street
Monday and Wednesday, 12 – 8 p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, 1 – 5 p.m.

City Colleges on the West Side include:

  • Malcolm X: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.