Champaign, Illinois – Sweltering heat and scattered storms will shape the first full weekend of July across central Illinois, posing safety risks and travel disruptions.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, heat index values will soar to 95–100°F by Saturday afternoon, especially along I-74 and I-57 corridors. Residents in Champaign, Piatt, Vermilion, and surrounding counties should limit strenuous activity during peak heat hours, especially between 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday.
Storm chances ramp up by Sunday, with showers and thunderstorms likely between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., followed by additional downpours and thunder through early evening. The NWS notes localized heavy rain is possible, with new rainfall totals between a tenth and a quarter of an inch — higher amounts in stronger cells.
Monday offers brief relief with mostly sunny skies and a high near 87°F. But unsettled weather returns Tuesday night, with a 30% chance of storms and more widespread activity expected midweek.
Drivers should monitor pavement conditions on U.S. Route 150 and I-72, especially during downpours. With fireworks-related haze still lingering, air quality could remain unhealthy for sensitive groups through Sunday, particularly in eastern counties.
Stay weather-aware and hydrated, and check in with local emergency alerts throughout the weekend.
📆 Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL (Saturday, July 5 – Wednesday, July 10):
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 92°F. Heat index near 100°.
- Sunday: Thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m., high near 89°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 87°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 91°F. Storms possible late.
- Wednesday: Scattered thunderstorms, high near 88°F.
