Take caution with extreme heat in forecast

Published on June 29, 2026

With temperatures and humidity predicted to push the heat index dangerously high this week, the Village is reminding residents to protect themselves and loved ones from the sometimes severe consequences of extreme heat.

During this extreme heat warning, a prolonged stretch of dangerous heat and humidity begins Monday with daily heat indices around 105 degrees are expected through Thursday evening. Tuesday, June 30 is shaping up to feature the highest heat indices of the stretch, nearing 106 degrees at O'Hare and 105 degrees at Midway. Residents are encouraged to check on relatives, friends and neighbors who may be vulnerable to heat-related illnesses or not have access to air conditioning. 

Cooling center information

Locally, all three branches of Oak Park Public Library serve as cooling centers during regular business hours - click here for hours and locations.

Individuals age 60 and older are welcome to seek relief from extreme weather conditions at Oak Park Township Senior Services, regardless of whether they are currently a client of the Township. The Township building at 130 S. Oak Park Ave. is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. During these hours, older adults may use the facility as a safe and comfortable place to stay during periods of extreme weather.

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security also provides an updated list of cooling centers for residents who do not have access to air conditioning - click here to view. For a list of cooling centers in Chicago, click here.

Stay safe in the heat

Residents looking for ways to help neighbors and outdoor workers during this excessive heat event can consider putting out a hydration station for postal workers and others who will be outside. 

While everyone is susceptible to heat-related illnesses, infants and young children, the elderly, people with mental illness and the physically ill, particularly those with heart disease or high blood pressure, are at greater risk.

To avoid overheating, Oak Park health officials recommend trying to stay out of the sun, wearing light, loose-fitting clothing, drinking water often and avoiding strenuous outdoors activities.

Learn more about staying safe as temperatures soar at www.ready.gov/heat. For the latest updates from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/lot.

For additional summer safety tips from the Oak Park Public Health Department, click here.

Energy conservation recommended

To reduce strain on the ComEd electric system and minimize the risk of widespread outages during the ongoing heat wave, residents are encouraged to conserve electricity, especially between noon and 8 p.m., by limiting the use of major appliances, adjusting thermostats and turning off unnecessary lights.

For the latest updates about power interruptions, visit www.ComEd.com or use the ComEd app.