Air quality issues, potential torrential downpours, and hot muggy weather are lined up for people in Lake and McHenry counties starting Father’s Day Sunday and lasting through the week.
People with breathing issues are urged to take precautions Sunday and Monday as the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency declared Sunday a poor air quality day for Lake and McHenry counties.
The Illinois EPA said people with chronic respiratory issues and other assorted breathing issues should avoid prolonged outdoor activities due to the air quality experienced.
The air quality problems will linger through Monday, IEPA officials said.Â
The National Weather Service is warning the high temperatures and unstable atmosphere experienced during the day have the potential to drive damaging storms to the area from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday.
Thunderstorms are expected to produce lightning strikes, downpours, and potentially damaging winds, weather service officials said.
Severe downpours with torrential rainfall could also blanket the area, officials said, and drivers are urged to use caution when driving through any potential storms.
Sunday also marks the start of a multi-day stretch of hot and humid weather expected to blanket the Midwest this week.
Heat indexes are expected to reach 99 degrees in some areas Monday and Tuesday, making it extremely uncomfortable to be outside for humans and pets alike.
People required to work outside in the heat are urged to wear and reapply sunscreen often, wear a brimmed hat to protect their face and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
People should also spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings during breaks and after work.
For more information, please review the National Weather Service website.