Weekend Weather for Chicago-Area: Heat Index Could Near 100 Degrees

It's going to be hot, hot, hot this weekend. The Chicago area could see high temps in the 90s starting on Saturday and continuing through next Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service. Meanwhile, the maximum heat index could reach 95 to 100 degrees.

The early season heat should bring a three- or four-day stretch of temperatures in the 90s. A four-day stretch of this kind of heat is very rare prior to the midpoint of June, according to the National Weather Service. Since 1972, there have only been nine years that have tailed four or more days of 90-degree temps during this time frame.

The most recent was 18 years ago on June 8 through June 11, 1999. The earliest on record was May 3 through May 6, 1949, while the longest early season stretch was nine days from May 16 to May 24, 1977.

• Sign Up for Patch Newsletters and Breaking News Updates

Early season stretches of just three consecutive 90-degree days are much more common. The most recent was June 9 through June 11, 2012.

In the average summer, the Chicago area will see 14 days with weather over the 90-degree mark. Along the lakefront, there is typically eight days that see that kind of heat.

Mostly sunny skies are expected through the weekend and as we kick off the start of the work week. Saturday should be breeze with high temps between 88 and 92 degrees. Sunday is expected to be even hotter with high temps between 91 and 95 degrees. The heat index value on Sunday could reach between 91 and 96 degrees.

Area residents are reminded to stay safe during the extreme heat. The National Weather Service provides the following tips for keeping you, your kids and your pets safe in the coming days.