Potentially dangerous heat is expected in the Homewood and Flossmoor area Wednesday and Thursday.
The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 23, and a heat watch through the evening of Thursday, Aug. 24.
The high temperature Wednesday is expected to reach 95 degrees with high humidity. The combination could make it feel like 112 degrees. Winds are expected to be between 10 and 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph.
On Thursday, the temperature could top out at 98 degrees, with winds slightly calmer, gusting to 20 mph.
“The magnitude of anticipated heat, combined with oppressive warmth at night will lead to hazardous conditions, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions,” NWS officials said in a notice. “Area residents should drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
The alert also warns: “Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.”