Dangerous Heat Ahead: Cooling Centers Open

Dangerous, and in some cases, life-threatening heat is expected Wednesday and Thursday, with the heat index expected to reach 115°. The National Weather Service says:

"EXCESSIVE HEAT WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 11AM TO 9PM CDT WEDNESDAY. Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 110° to 115° expected.

EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY EVENING THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING. Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values up to 110° possible.

WHEN: 

• For the Excessive Heat Warning, from 11AM to 9PM CDT Wednesday.
• For the Excessive Heat Watch, from Wednesday evening through Thursday evening.

IMPACTS: 

The magnitude of anticipated heat, combined with oppressive warmth at night will lead to hazardous conditions, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Residents of the city of Chicago can call 311 to request well being checks for elderly friends or family members, or for information on finding the nearest cooling center."

The City has released this list of cooling shelters in the Uptown area. A list for the entire city is here.

Uptown:

• Truman College, 1145 W. Wilson — M-F: 8AM-6PM
• Community Service Center, 845 W. Wilson — hours extended Wed/Thur to 8:30am-7pm
• Bezazian Library, 1226 W Ainslie — M, W: noon-7pm; Tu, Th: 10am-5pm; F, Sa: 10am-5pm
• Uptown Library, 929 W Buena — M, W: 10am-5pm; Tu, Th: noon-7pm; F, Sa: 10a-5m
• Park District Spray — Broncho Billy 4437 N Magnolia

Edgewater:

• Edgewater Library, 6000 N Broadway — M, W: 10am-5pm; Tu, Th: noon-7pm; F, Sa: 10a-5m
• Park District Spray — Senn Park, 5887 N Ridge
• Park District Spray — Cedar Park, 5315 N Winthrop
• Edgewater Satellite Senior Center (5917 N Broadway) — 8:30am-4:30pm

Of course, the most vulnerable are people living outside, and people living without air conditioning, particularly the elderly and those with medical conditions. If you see anyone in distress, please call 311 to get them to a cooling center or 911 for immediate medical assistance.

The good news is that the temperatures are projected to be in the mid-70s starting Friday.