The heat index is forecast to reach 105 degrees in Evanston this week, and the city has opened five cooling centers where residents can escape the dangerous temperatures through at least Thursday, July 17.

Robert Crown Community Center at 1801 Main St. has the longest hours of any site, opening at 6 a.m. and staying open until 10 p.m. The other four locations offer daytime relief:

  • Levy Senior Center, 300 Dodge Ave. — 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center, 1655 Foster St. — 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Prieto Community Center, 430 Asbury Ave. — 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Ave. — 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (hours may vary; call 847-448-4311 to confirm)

The National Weather Service warned that the combination of extreme heat and oppressive overnight warmth "will lead to hazardous conditions, particularly for the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions."

This is the second heat wave to hit the area this summer. The first stretched from Monday, June 30 through Wednesday, July 2, when highs reached 94 to 95 degrees and heat indices topped 100. Brett Borchardt, a senior meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Chicago office, told the Chicago Tribune that while humidity won't be as severe this time, "it's still going to be pretty hot out there."

In its cooling center notice, the city urged residents to check on neighbors who may be vulnerable, especially elderly people living alone. An air quality alert is also in effect for Cook County through midnight Wednesday, July 15, due to elevated ozone levels. The Illinois EPA declared an air pollution action day, noting that people with asthma, children, older adults, and those who work outdoors for six or more hours face the highest risk.

The city's heat safety guidance includes drinking plenty of water, staying in cool or shaded areas, reducing physical activity during peak afternoon hours, wearing loose and light clothing, and never leaving people or pets in a parked car.

Lake Michigan breezes may offer what the weather service called "modest relief" near the lakefront, but for residents farther inland, the cooling centers may be the best option. Residents can call or text 847-448-4311, or dial 3-1-1 from any Evanston phone, for more information.