Heat wave brings near record-breaking temps

The second heat wave to hit the Chicago area in three weeks is expected to bring near-record breaking temperatures to the area Tuesday afternoon.

While an official high won’t be confirmed by the National Weather Service until later Tuesday afternoon, heat index values are expected to peak around 100 degrees, and the projected high at O’Hare Airport is 97 degrees — just shy of the record high of 100 degrees for July 14 set in 1995.

An air quality alert was in effect until at least Wednesday for northeastern Illinois and northwestern Indiana, according to the weather service. Forecasters also issued a hazardous weather outlook in effect for portions of north central and northeast and northwest Indiana because of the heat.

The combination of warmer temperatures and high humidity can increase the risk for heat-related illness, especially for older adults, young children, people spending long periods of time outside and individuals without reliable access to cooling, according to AccuWeather meteorologists.

Since July 1, at least five people have died, at least in part, due to heat in the Chicago area.

Heat indices are anticipated to reach the triple digits through Thursday, and highs are expected to drop to the low 90s Friday.

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