Champaign, Illinois – Scorching heat won’t be the only danger in central Illinois this weekend. Thunderstorms are expected to develop Friday night and linger through early next week, bringing the threat of damaging winds and flash flooding to cities along I-74, including Champaign.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Heat Advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. Thursday. Heat index values reached as high as 105°F. But attention is quickly shifting to Friday, June 27, when a round of isolated storms could arrive after 3 p.m., followed by a stronger storm system late Friday into Saturday. Some storms could turn severe, especially with gusts over 50 mph.
Residents in Champaign, Danville, and Urbana should limit outdoor activity Friday afternoon and prepare for possible weather-related power outages Friday night. If you live along the I-74 corridor, avoid travel during heavy downpours and keep your phone charged.
Weekend plans may face interruptions. Saturday brings another 40% chance of storms with highs near 89°F. Storms could also return Sunday and Monday, with brief breaks between scattered activity. This volatile pattern will continue through at least Tuesday, as warm, humid air fuels daily storm chances.
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL:
- Thursday: High 95°F, heat index up to 105°, isolated storms after 3 p.m.
- Friday: High 91°F, strong storms possible after 4 p.m., gusts up to 25 mph
- Saturday: High 89°F, 40% chance of storms
- Sunday: High 92°F, 30% chance of afternoon storms
- Monday: High 88°F, scattered storms possible late
