What to Know About Heat Dome Hitting Chicago

Chicago could feel like it’s 100 degrees this week as a heat dome hits the city. We’re sharing what to know and how to stay safe.

What is a Heat Dome?

A heat dome traps air in place and blocks out cloud coverage and rain, giving the sun a direct path to the ground. That means these hot Chicago days can feel even hotter.

The heat dome that took over the western part of the country earlier this month has arrived in the Midwest and Great Lakes region.

How Chicagoans Can Stay Safe

Stay inside, remain hydrated, wear loose cotton clothing, and minimize oven and stove use.

Brush up on the city’s cooling ordinance that was passed a couple of years ago: Residential buildings must have air conditioning installed in common areas when the heat index exceeds 80 degrees.

Residents can also take shelter at:

• Six city cooling centers
• Park District field houses
• Chicago Public library branches

When Will the Heat Pass?

The hot weather could last into the weekend, according to forecasts. At least the city’s outdoor pools and beaches are now open for Chicagoans to cool off.