Champaign, Illinois – Intense summer heat will continue to blanket central and southeast Illinois through Thursday, with little overnight relief and heat index values near 105°F. But some relief is finally in sight — thunderstorms could bring cooler conditions by Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Heat Advisory remains in effect through 7 p.m. CDT Thursday across cities including Champaign, Springfield, Peoria, and Bloomington. Tuesday through Thursday will feature daily highs in the mid-90s, with humid conditions driving the heat index into the triple digits.
Tuesday’s high in Champaign will reach 94°F, with “feels-like” temps peaking around 104°F. Southwesterly winds will persist, and overnight lows in the mid-70s will keep buildings without cooling systems dangerously warm.
Officials urge residents to limit outdoor activity, especially during peak afternoon hours. Hydrate regularly, wear lightweight clothing, and check on elderly or at-risk individuals. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends shaded breaks for outdoor workers to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Relief may begin Friday, when a more active storm pattern moves in. Scattered thunderstorms are expected during the afternoon hours Friday and into the weekend, offering a chance to break the heat.
Stay alert for updated advisories, especially if storms develop earlier or bring localized flooding risks.
🔎 Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL (June 23–28):
- Monday: High 96°F – Heat index up to 103 – Sunny and hot
- Tuesday: High 94°F – Heat index near 104 – Mostly sunny, slight chance of storms after 1 p.m.
- Wednesday: High 93°F – 30% chance of storms – Hot with limited relief at night (Low 74°F)
- Thursday: High 93°F – Another 30% storm chance after 1 p.m. – Continued humid
- Friday: High 91°F – Storm chances continue – Summer heat lingers into weekend
