CHICAGO (WLS) — The Chicago area is bracing for rising temperatures once again, accompanied by the potential for severe storms forecasted to hit on Monday morning.
Meteorologists have placed Chicago under a Level 2 risk for severe weather on Monday morning, indicating a significant possibility of intense conditions.
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According to ABC7 Accuweather Meteorologists Jaisol Martinez and Greg Dutra, while severe storms may occur late Sunday night, they could potentially veer south to southwest of the city.
With ongoing heat and humidity, another series of severe storms may develop and impact the area between 6 and 11 a.m. on Monday.
Once the skies clear in the afternoon, there’s still a possibility that more storms could roll in by Monday evening.
Strong winds are the main concern for both rounds of storms.
Highs Sunday were in the 90s, with a heat index values around 100.
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Monday will also be hot, with a heat index value near 105. Heat indices in spots that clear out, such as LaSalle, Grundy, Will, and DuPage counties, will likely spike into the triple digits during the break between storms.
On Sunday, warm temperatures drew large crowds to festivals and events across Chicago, with many attendees embracing what they described as the height of summertime in the city.
Fiesta Del Sol in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood attracted large crowds as people looked for ways to stay cool in the heat.
“It’s super crowded but lots of fun. Everyone looks like they’re enjoying themselves and we’re all a little hot, but that’s ok everyone’s hot and everyone’s being cool about it,” Denedjah and Makayla said.
Others welcomed the weather.
“We’re feeling good we’re just enjoying the nice weather,” said Demeka Akins.
Some visitors from out of state said they were still adjusting to Chicago’s humidity.
“It’s a little warm for sure. I’m from Arizona so this is keeping up, but the humidity is getting to me,” said Roman Avalos, who was visiting from Arizona.
The warm weather also did not stop 41 youth baseball teams from taking the field in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood. A tournament held there raised more than $500,000 for children and families impacted by diabetes.
Participants and spectators focused on staying cool while enjoying the community atmosphere.
“For me, it feels good. I’m not playing, I’m just watching and coaching but overall good day and it’s better than playing in 40 degrees and wind,” said AJ Fuller, a coach with Top Tier.
Parents said keeping players hydrated was a priority throughout the day.
“Keeping them hydrated with Gatorade, water and spraying them down. They’re kids when you’re a kid you make it happen,” said Ernesto Vargas, a parent. “All the families are here for the kids, and it’s a beautiful thing.”
Despite the heat and humidity, attendees at both events said they were enjoying the weather and the opportunity to spend time with their communities outdoors.
A reminder during this heat: community cooling centers are open.
You can also cool off at Chicago Park District facilities, public libraries and police stations.
Seniors are welcome at any city senior center.
To request a well-being check, call 3-1-1.
Cooling centers are also open across the suburbs.
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