Springfield, Ill. – Central Illinois will see summer heat return in full force Friday, with highs climbing back into the 90s and sticking around through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, temperatures are expected to reach 89 to 93 degrees Friday before peaking near 96 degrees on both Saturday and Sunday. Heat index values could climb higher, particularly in urban areas such as Springfield, Decatur, and Bloomington, where limited shade and concrete surfaces intensify the heat.
The Illinois River Valley and east-central counties may see isolated evening storms Saturday and Sunday, though chances remain around 20 percent. Rainfall is expected to be minimal, leaving much of the state dry through Monday. Nighttime lows will stay mild, ranging from the lower 60s in rural areas to the upper 60s in towns and cities.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors and pets. Energy demand is also expected to rise with prolonged air conditioner use, which could strain power grids.
Heat is forecast to linger into early next week, with highs holding in the low to mid-90s through Monday. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
