The National Weather Service Chicago has issued an Excessive Heat Warning for Kane County and surrounding areas — one of a several new warnings about a heat wave that’s expected to be the worst in two years.

The Excessive Heat Warning is in effect from noon Thursday (July 21, 2016) to 7 p.m. Friday. Temperatures in the mid-90s are expected on both days, with maximum heat index values of 115 degrees.

“Temperatures this high could lead to heat-related illnesses with prolonged exposure,” the NWS says in its warning. “The elderly, small children and pets are especially susceptible.”

The Weather Service recommends planning ahead. Find a cool place to take shelter from the heat, avoid outdoor activity during the afternoon. If you work outside, reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or late evening.

Kane County residents should know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is an emergency, so call 9-1-1 if you observe someone with the symptoms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, cold and clammy skin, a fast and weak pulse, nausea or vomiting and fainting. Heat stroke symptoms include high body temperature (above 103°F), hot and red skin, rapid and strong pulse and possible unconsciousness.

Kane County Coroner Rob Russell is offering reminders of how to avoid heat stroke.

“Please be diligent in keeping yourselves hydrated and staying out of the heat for extended periods of time,” Russell said. “We have been very fortunate historically in Kane County with very low to no heat related deaths and we want to keep it that way.”

If you see signs of heat stroke:

• Call for emergency medical attention. Heat stroke progresses quickly and can be fatal, so it is important to act immediately.
• Move the victim to a shaded or cooler area. Loosen a person’s clothing and help them get comfortable.
• Attempt to cool the person down.

The OSHA offers free OSHA Heat Safety App for both Android and iPhone.

Click here for the Kane County Health Department’s heat page. The Kane County Office of Emergency Management,
Kane County Health Department, and Kane County Animal Control Department monitor potential extreme heat conditions in the County and will take action based on extreme heat alerts issued by the National Weather Service (NWS).

Metra Delays Possible

Metra announced Wednesday that riders may experience minor delays of 10 to 15 minutes due to the heat.

“When temperatures exceed 95 degrees, it is necessary to operate our trains at reduced speeds to compensate for heat related stress on our track, switches, and signals,” Metra said in a Wednesday e-blast. “During this period, we will have all resources required on standby so that we can quickly respond and restore service. We regret any inconvenience this may cause.”

Additional NWS Resources

• Heat Safety
• Weather Watcher Page
• Hazardous Weather Outlook
• Weather Prediction Center Heat Index Forecasts

How Fast a Car Heats Up

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