For construction workers and others who have no choice but to work in the region's high heat and humidity, tempers and stress can rise with the temperatures.

"Working out of doors is considered a major stressor," said Richard Lencki, a lecturer in the Division of Psychology and Counseling at Governors State University.

"We try to keep a body balance, and anything that disrupts that is stressful."

Being in extreme heat conditions can cause irritability and health problems to develop, Lencki said. These conditions could lead to heart attack and stroke if precautions are not taken.

"I thought, 'Here we go again,'" Darren Bouque said about Wednesday's high temperatures as he was working on a Calumet Avenue construction project in Munster. "There's not a whole lot we can do about it. We still have to work."

The National Weather Service said temperatures in parts of the region affected by Wednesday's rain peaked at 90 degrees. Areas not affected by the rain saw temperatures rise to the mid-90s. A cold front that came through the region last night will bring temperatures down into the 80s today, but the heat returns for the weekend as temperatures in the upper 80s and lower 90s are expected through Sunday. Monday is expected to be a much cooler day, with temperatures in the upper 70s.

Contractors and foremen on Wednesday used a variety of methods to help their workers combat the heat.

Kurt Husmann, a concrete foreman working on the Calumet Avenue project, expected his workers to take breaks to cool down and drink water as often as they needed.

Bouque, who works under Husmann's supervision, said he applied sunscreen throughout the day, wore a hat and kept hydrated.

Larry Behling, a general contractor for local schools, businesses and medical facilities, said most construction workers know when to stop and take a break so they avoid becoming ill. However, if workers do become sick, they should rehydrate and wait until they feel ready to work. Medical attention should be sought if needed.

The Porter County Emergency Management Agency advises anyone working outside in extreme heat to avoid strenuous activities, overeating, salt and too much sun exposure. They encourage taking short breaks in a cool spot, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing, drinking plenty of water and spending more time in air-conditioned places.