Cooling Centers open in the Palatine, Arlington Heights Area

According to the National Weather service, highs are expected to be in the lower 90s in Palatine Thursday, and heat index values near or above 100 degrees.

If your home has no air conditioning or it is not working and you need a place to stay cool, Palatine Township Residents can utilize the Palatine Township building at 721 S. Quentin Road, which is identified as one of Cook County's official cooling centers, according to Tom Smith, Palatine Emergency Management Agency coordinator. The township building is open from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 

Wheeling Township Supervisor Mike Schroder said Wheeling Township residents, can get a break from the heat at Wheeling Township Community Center at 1616 N. Arlington Heights Road. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Fridays from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. 

Smith also suggests going to your local public library, either Arlington Heights Memorial Library at 500 N. Dunton or Palatine Public Library at 700 N. Court in Palatine - or spending time at Woodfield Mall if those locations are move convenient. 

Friday could be the hottest day with highs in the mid-90s in some areas with heat index values of 100 to 105 degrees, the National Weather Service reports.

Other safety tips including staying hydrated and out of the direct sun if possible. If you do have to be outside, take regular breaks in the shade. 

Click here for additional tips on how to beat the summer heat, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

Wearing loose fitting, light colored clothing also will help you to weather the heat for the next couple of days.

Stay cool out there! 

Amie Schaenzer contributed to this report.