2 area deaths may be related to heat wave

Two people in the Chicago area may have died from heat-related causes on the Fourth of July, pending further investigation into the official cause of death.

A spokesman for the Cook County medical examiner’s office says the two deaths Wednesday so far are the only fatalities possibly related to the recent wave of roasting temperatures.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Chicago through Friday at 6 p.m. That means the area is expected to see dangerously hot temperatures for a prolonged period.

Chicago officials are urging residents to check on their neighbors, especially the elderly and people with chronic illnesses.

Chicagoans can call 311 to find a nearby cooling center or request a well-being check. Rides to cooling center are available by calling 311.