CHICAGO () — Dangerous heat is gripping the Chicago area Monday, with heat alerts in place across the region and the potential for thunderstorms later in the day.
ABC7 AccuWeather Meteorologist Tracy Butler said the most intense conditions are expected west of Chicago, where heat index readings could climb above 110 degrees. Much of the rest of the area may still feel hotter than 100 degrees when humidity is factored in.
An Extreme Heat Warning remains in place until 9 p.m. Monday for DeKalb, Grundy, La Salle and Livingston counties.
A Heat Advisory is also in effect until 9 p.m. for Boone, Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties in Illinois, along with Lake, Newton, Jasper and Benton counties in Indiana.
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Forecasters have placed the Chicago area under a Level 3 risk for severe weather Monday, though Butler noted that some forecast models suggest storms may miss the region altogether.
Still, the thick humidity could allow storms to form rapidly if the atmosphere becomes more unstable during the day, Butler said.
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As the extreme heat continues, residents are being reminded that community cooling centers are available.
People looking to escape the heat can also visit Chicago Park District buildings, public libraries and police stations to cool down.
Seniors are welcome at any city senior center.
To request a well-being check, call 3-1-1.
Cooling centers are also open across the suburbs.
