The warmest prolonged stretch of weather is here in Illinois and local officials are encouraging everyone to seek shelter somewhere cool.

 

With highs consistently in the 90s this week and lows in the 70s, keeping cool will be the challenge for residents this week. Teresa Barnett, EMA Director for DeWitt County says traditionally, they do not open cooling centers until the temperature reaches 105, which causes the National Weather Service to issue heat advisories or warnings.

 

She says, despite the temperatures not getting that warm, heat related sickness can still occur from strenuous activity. 

 

She says stay hydrated and reminds residents this is no weather for pets either, encouraging owners to keep their animals inside in a cool place. 

 

Thunderstorms are in the forecast for portions of the week, with a cool down expected on Father's Day, when highs are expected near 80-degrees.