Hot Chicago temperatures could last into the fall

Today is the second consecutive day that the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for most of the Chicagoland area and Northwest Indiana.

The big picture: The heat index is supposed to be near 110 degrees, including hot and humid conditions that could be dangerous with prolonged exposure.

• The city has opened cooling centers and Chicago Public School officials say there are protocols in place if cooling systems malfunction in school buildings.
• Even though every classroom is equipped with air conditioning, some older buildings don't cool the halls and gymnasiums.
• For the second day this week, CPS is canceling all outdoor competitions and moving other outdoor activities indoors.

What they're saying: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

The intrigue: Don't expect this to be the last heat wave of the summer. The new climate outlook for the U.S. this fall reflects the expected influence of a coming La Niña event in the tropical Pacific Ocean, along with longer-term trends.

Why it matters: Prevailing weather conditions during the September-through-November period could clinch records for the warmest year in some cities, including Chicago, while affecting multibillion-dollar industries such as agriculture.

The big picture: According to the NWS' Climate Prediction Center, the September-through-November period is likely to feature above-average temperatures, including in Cook County. If you live just west, you are less likely to experience above average warm temperatures during this period.

The bottom line: Here's hoping your central air units stay strong for a few more months.

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