Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Blistering heat and humid air will permeate Lake and Porter counties over the next two days, prompting government officials to advise extreme caution and establish temporary cooling centers.

“At this point it’s vital that everyone stays safe,” said Russell Shirley, director of Porter County Emergency Management Agency. “It really comes down to common sense. Avoid doing yard work and do your best to stay out of the boiling hot sun.”

More Top Picks Best Underseat Subwoofers For Cars

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Lake and Porter County that will be in effect from noon Thursday until 7 p.m. Friday. The temperature is expected to be in the low to mid-90’s both days with a maximum heat index between 103 and 108 degrees.

The torrid heat increases the chance for a heat related illness, particularly for the elderly, small children and pets, said Kimberly Hayward, Federal Emergency Management Agency Region V community preparedness officer. “We want to make sure people are checking on family, friends and neighbors.”

Hayward said she urges people to stay indoors, drink plenty of water and never leave children or pets in closed vehicles.

“I would ask our residents to check in on their neighbors, especially senior citizens who are most vulnerable by the extreme heat,” Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott said in a release. “Stay hydrated, wear lightweight, light colored clothing, and limit your time outdoors,” he said.

Temperatures are expected to cool temporarily on Friday due to rain and potential thunderstorms Thursday night, according to the weather service.

[email protected]

Twitter @JavonteA

Confirmed regional cooling centers

East Chicago

Heritage Hall, 4506 Todd Ave.

Hammond

The Jean Shephard Community Center, 3031 J.F. Mahoney Dr.; Lost Marsh Golf Course Clubhouse, 1001 129th St.; Hammond City Hall.

Hobart

Fire Station #1, 401 E. 10th St.; Fire Station #4, 7710 S. Colorado St.; Hobart Community Center at Festival Park (Thursday only), 111 E. Old Ridge Road; Hobart branch of Lake County Library, 100 Main St; Hobart police substation in Southlake Mall.

Portage

Bonner Senior Center, 5800 Lexington Ave.