The National Weather Service says we can expect severe thunderstorms Monday afternoon, followed by a wave of oppressive heat Tuesday and Wednesday.
The first wave of storms expected hit the Chicago area this afternoon are expected to miss Evanston or have little impact here, but a second wave of storms — between mid-afternoon and early evening could be more severe here, the forecasters say.
However the weather service says “uncertainty is high” about whether the storms will actually develop and may avoid our area altogether.
Update 8 p.m.: Evanston was under a tornado watch for the late afternoon and early evening hours, and while a severe thunderstorm blew threw, the worst of the forecast weather didn’t materialize.
The forecasters are more confident that we’re in for sweltering temperatures Tuesday and Wednesday.
High temperatures are expected to reach 94 degrees in Evanston on Tuesday afternoon and 95 on Wednesday, before cooling off some on Thursday.
The city says three public buildings will be open as cooling centers those days:
- Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave., 8:30 a.m. until 9 p.m.
- Robert Crown Community Center and Library, 1801 Main St., 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.
- Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The city’s Health Department suggests taking the following actions to prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Drink lots of water, and avoid alcohol, caffeine and high salt intake
- Stay in cool, shaded areas while outdoors, and keep the blinds drawn or lights down indoors
- Use air conditioners or fans; avoid excessive exposure to heat in unventilated areas
- Reduce physical activity
- Take cool baths or showers, and use cool towels
- Wear loose, light cotton clothing and a breathable hat
- Eat light meals; avoid eating heavy meals and using the oven
- Do not leave people or pets alone in a hot car, even for a few minutes
- Check on the elderly and those with disabilities