Record-Breaking Heatwave Hits Chicago, Prompts Cooling Measures and Local Assistance
Temperatures soared to unprecedented heights in Chicago as a record-breaking heatwave gripped the city, leading to the implementation of various cooling measures and local assistance programs. The scorching heat and suffocating humidity, brought on by a heat dome, prompted concerns for the well-being of residents and necessitated prompt action.
On Thursday afternoon, temperatures at O’Hare reached 100 degrees, marking the first time the city experienced such extreme heat since 2012. The high temperature also tied Chicago’s daily record for August 24, which was originally set in 1947. Fortunately, relief was on the horizon as a cold front was expected to move through the area by Thursday evening, bringing with it cooler temperatures.
The arrival of the front, slated for sometime between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m., brought a slight possibility of thunderstorms developing along its path. Although the threat for severe weather was low, there remained a slight concern for high winds that could accompany any thunderstorms. However, the primary area of concern for these storms was to the east of Chicago.
Driven by concerns over the well-being of concertgoers attending the Guns n Roses performance at Wrigley Field on Thursday night, the Cubs and Wrigley Field management took precautionary measures to ensure their safety. Misters were installed on the upper deck and cooling stations were set up at various locations within the arena. Additionally, a cooling bus was stationed on Waveland Avenue for easy access by attendees.
The heatwave presented challenges for residents across the city, particularly those lacking air conditioning in their homes. Recognizing this, local organizations, such as My Block My Hood My City, stepped in to assist those in need. Volunteers visited Westmore Apartments in Garfield Park, delivering box fans to help keep residents cool. Many of the residents, particularly the elderly, lacked access to cooling resources, making the fan distribution a welcome relief.
Individuals with respiratory conditions faced additional challenges during the heatwave. Doctors advised creating a clean and dust-free environment within the home and avoiding the use of candles, which can exacerbate breathing difficulties. It was especially crucial for children with asthma to limit their exposure to the outdoors and carry their rescue medication with them.
In a separate incident, ComEd, the utility company, requested residents of Tinley Park and Orland Park to conserve electricity until 7:30 p.m. due to an emergency situation that required the shutdown of a piece of equipment. Residents were advised to minimize their electricity consumption by turning off unnecessary lights and devices, raising their thermostats by a few degrees, and postponing the use of appliances like dishwashers and dryers.
The heatwave also took its toll on air conditioning units, resulting in an increase in calls to HVAC companies. Four Seasons Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electric reported a staggering surge in demand, with four times their usual call volume. They emphasized the importance of regular maintenance for AC units and encouraged homeowners to schedule annual tune-ups to avoid costly repairs.
The extreme heat prompted the closure of Buffalo Grove High School due to HVAC system problems. Meanwhile, Chicago Public Schools undertook a massive water distribution effort, providing schools across the city with bottled water. Despite the cancellation of outdoor recess, students enjoyed indoor activities and exercises to keep them engaged and cool during this challenging weather.
The blistering heatwave tested the resilience of Chicagoans, but the city rallied together to combat the scorching conditions. With cooling measures implemented and assistance programs reaching those in need, residents endured the extreme temperatures as they eagerly awaited the arrival of cooler weather.
