The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a heat advisory for DuPage County with heat index values expected to reach 100 to 110 degrees through Wednesday evening.
The advisory is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 1, and again from noon to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2. The NWS said hot temperatures combined with high humidity may cause heat illnesses across DuPage and 10 other Chicago-area counties, Patch reported.
Dangerous heat may continue into Thursday, Sept. 3, and Friday, Sept. 4, especially south of Interstate 80, according to the NWS. Waves of severe storms may also move through the area Thursday and Friday.
Where to cool off
Downers Grove residents who need shelter from the heat can call 911 for sheltering assistance around the clock, including holidays, according to the village's heat advisory page. Transportation to a cooling center will be provided if needed.
Two Downers Grove cooling centers are listed on the village's standing heat advisory page. The village advises calling ahead to confirm hours:
- Downers Grove Fire Station 2, 5240 Main St., 630-434-5976. Listed hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Downers Grove Public Library, 1050 Curtiss St., 630-960-1200. Listed hours: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
In Westmont, three cooling centers are available:
- Westmont Police and Fire Department, 500 N. Cass Ave., 630-981-6300. After regular hours, a phone in the vestibule connects to dispatch to open the lobby.
- Westmont Public Library, 428 N. Cass Ave., 630-869-6150.
- Westmont Park District Community Center, 75 E. Richmond St., 630-963-5252.
Woodridge residents and others across DuPage County can find additional cooling centers at 211dupage.gov or by calling 211. Residents should call any cooling center before going, as some locations open only during emergencies such as large-scale power outages.
Know the warning signs
The NWS advises staying indoors in air conditioning whenever possible, drinking water and checking on children and seniors.
Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, thirst, nausea, heavy sweating and weakness. Heat stroke symptoms are more severe: a red, dry face, skin hot to the touch, rapid and shallow breathing, elevated body temperature and changes in consciousness, according to village guidance. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability without emergency treatment.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should call 911 immediately.
ComEd outages and downed power lines can be reported at 1-800-334-7661.
