CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Central Illinois faces dangerous heat this weekend, with heat index values climbing near 106° on Saturday. Residents should limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors as conditions peak. The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure could quickly lead to heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, Saturday will be mostly sunny with highs near 96°, but humidity will push “feels like” temperatures above 105°. Light south winds will offer little relief. A 20% chance of thunderstorms lingers late Friday night, mainly north of I-74, possibly impacting early Saturday travel.
Travelers along I-72, U.S. 45, and I-74 should prepare for reduced visibility if storms develop and keep emergency water in their vehicles. City cooling centers in Champaign and Urbana will be open through Sunday evening. Pets should be brought indoors during peak heat hours, and residents are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor work between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
The heat will persist into Monday with highs in the upper 90s. A slight break is expected by Tuesday, but scattered storms could bring brief downpours and gusty winds.
Five Day Forecast for Champaign, Illinois
Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 96°, heat index up to 106°. Low around 74°.
Sunday: Sunny, high near 97°, low near 74°.
Monday: Mostly sunny and hot, high near 97°, low around 74°.
Tuesday: 30% chance of storms after 1 p.m., high near 95°, low around 70°.
Wednesday: Chance of storms, high near 87°, low around 65°.
