CHICAGO () — Heat is building once again across the Chicago area, and forecasters are watching the potential for severe thunderstorms early Monday.
The Chicago area is currently under a Level 2 risk for severe weather Monday morning.
ABC7 AccuWeather meteorologists Jaisol Martinez and Greg Dutra said storms could develop late Sunday night, though that activity may track mainly south and southwest of the city.
With oppressive heat and humidity still in place, another wave of potentially severe storms may push through between 6 a.m. and 11 a.m. Monday.
Conditions are expected to improve by Monday afternoon, but the break may not last long, with another chance for storms returning Monday evening.
Damaging winds are the primary threat with both possible rounds of severe weather.
Temperatures climbed into the 90s on Sunday, while heat index readings made it feel closer to 100 degrees.
How to stay cool in Chicago area amid rising temperatures this summer: LIST
Monday is expected to stay dangerously hot, with heat index values near 105. Areas that see sunshine between storm chances, including LaSalle, Grundy, Will and DuPage counties, could see feels-like temperatures surge into the triple digits.
On Sunday, warm temperatures drew large crowds to festivals and events across Chicago, with many attendees embracing what they described as the height of summertime in the city.
Fiesta Del Sol in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood attracted large crowds as people looked for ways to stay cool in the heat.
“It’s super crowded but lots of fun. Everyone looks like they’re enjoying themselves and we’re all a little hot, but that’s ok everyone’s hot and everyone’s being cool about it,” Denedjah and Makayla said.
Others welcomed the weather.
“We’re feeling good we’re just enjoying the nice weather,” said Demeka Akins.
Some visitors from out of state said they were still adjusting to Chicago’s humidity.
“It’s a little warm for sure. I’m from Arizona so this is keeping up, but the humidity is getting to me,” said Roman Avalos, who was visiting from Arizona.
The warm weather also did not stop 41 youth baseball teams from taking the field in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood. A tournament held there raised more than $500,000 for children and families impacted by diabetes.
Participants and spectators focused on staying cool while enjoying the community atmosphere.
“For me, it feels good. I’m not playing, I’m just watching and coaching but overall good day and it’s better than playing in 40 degrees and wind,” said AJ Fuller, a coach with Top Tier.
Parents said keeping players hydrated was a priority throughout the day.
“Keeping them hydrated with Gatorade, water and spraying them down. They’re kids when you’re a kid you make it happen,” said Ernesto Vargas, a parent. “All the families are here for the kids, and it’s a beautiful thing.”
Despite the heat and humidity, attendees at both events said they were enjoying the weather and the opportunity to spend time with their communities outdoors.
A reminder during this heat: community cooling centers are open.
You can also cool off at Chicago Park District facilities, public libraries and police stations.
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.
