Hot, sticky weather prompts heat advisory
SUN-TIMES MEDIA July 3, 2012 12:04PM
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Updated: July 3, 2012 12:34PM
Hot and humid weather that has blanketed the area for weeks is not going away anytime soon and Tuesday and Wednesday could see temperatures climb to close to 100 degrees as the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory in effect from 11 a.m. Tuesday to 9 p.m. Wednesday for the Chicago area.
A heat advisory means that high temperatures and high humidity will combine to create potential health risks.
The service warns people working or spending time outside to take extra precautions because of the heat, suggesting outside activities be rescheduled to early morning or evening hours. It also warns residents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, to wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing and drink lots of water. Children and pets are especially vulnerable to the heat and residents are warned to never leave them unattended in vehicles under any circumstances because car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.
The Occupational Safety and Heath Administration urges those working outside to take frequent rests in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Most people will get a day off to celebrate the Fourth of July but those looking for a break in the heat will be disappointed.
Forecasters predict Tuesday’s peak afternoon heat index readings of 100 to 105. Tuesday night will see partly cloudy skies with a 20 percent change of showers or thunderstorms,
Fourth of July will see partly cloudy and hazy skies with a 30 percent change of thunderstorms late in the afternoon, according to the service, The continued hot and humid weather, with predicted highs of close to 100 degrees, will push the heat index between 105 and 110 with west winds of 10 mph.
Wednesday night will have a 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with lows in the mid-70s.
