An excessive heat warning has been issued for Cook County by the National Weather Service, predicting dangerously high temperatures and heat index values that could soar up to 107 degrees on Monday and 110 degrees on Tuesday.
This warning is in effect for August 26 and 27. In response to the severe heat, the Village of Oak Park will open a cooling center at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, located at 611 Randolph St. It will operate with volunteer staff from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday and from noon to 8 p.m. on Tuesday.
All three branches of the Oak Park Public Library will also serve as cooling centers. The Main Library at 834 Lake St. will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the heat wave. The Maze Branch at 845 Gunderson Ave. will operate from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on both Monday and Tuesday, while the Dole Branch at 255 Augusta St. will be closed on Monday but will open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
Please note that Oak Park Temple will not be available as a cooling center this week.
The cooling center protocol is activated when outdoor temperatures reach 95 degrees or more, or when the heat index hits 103 degrees or higher for four continuous hours during the hours of 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to check on vulnerable individuals, including relatives, friends, and neighbors who may be particularly susceptible to heat-related health issues, especially those without air conditioning.
While anyone can experience heat-related illnesses, infants, young children, the elderly, and individuals with mental or physical health issues, particularly those with heart disease or high blood pressure, are at heightened risk.
To reduce the risk of overheating, health officials recommend staying out of direct sunlight, wearing light and loose-fitting clothing, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
For additional information on heat safety, visit www.ready.gov/heat. For the latest updates from the National Weather Service, go to www.weather.gov/lot. For further inquiries, the Oak Park Health Department can be contacted via email at health@oak-park.us or by phone at 708.358.5480.