Extreme Heat to Scorch Illinois with Dangerous Temps This Weekend

A dangerous heat wave is forecast to settle in over northern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin this weekend, bringing several days of uncomfortable temperatures.

Heat Dome to Blanket Illinois, Wisconsin with Scorching Temps

According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service (NWS), the heat index is likely to exceed 100 degrees across Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and most of the Midwest.

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Due to the potential for hazardous conditions, the NWS has already issued an Extreme Heat Watch from Saturday afternoon (6/21) through Sunday evening (6/22).

Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values above 105 possible for multiple days, potentially into early next week. Heat releated illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat and high humidity events -National Weather Service

There won't be much relief from the muggy conditions in the evening, with overnight temperatures still expected to be in the mid to upper 70s.

Expect Extreme Heat Warnings to Be Issued

With a prolonged stretch of temperatures feeling like it's over 100, it's almost certain the NWS will issue an Extreme Heat Warning beginning this weekend.

The latest Weather Channel forecast for the Rockford region has actual high temperatures at 96 degrees on Saturday (6/20), Sunday (6/21), and Monday (6/22).

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Tuesday will still hit the lower 90s, before another round of showers and thunderstorms is expected to arrive Wednesday (6/24), and the high will be in the mid-80s.

Safety Tips for Beating the Heat

When it hits 90 to 100 degrees under mostly sunny skies, it becomes dangerous to be exposed to extreme heat for an extended amount of time, so experts recommend that you avoid outdoor activity during afternoon hours.

Be sure to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing when you are outdoors, stay hydrated, and check on neighbors, especially elderly individuals or those with pre-existing conditions.

Many counties in Illinois and Wisconsin will be activating cooling centers to offer relief to residents who don't have access to shelter with air conditioning. Shopping centers and libraries are other locations where you can find a spot to cool down.