Champaign, Illinois – Dangerous heat is pushing heat indices as high as 115° across Central Illinois through Wednesday, prompting safety concerns and the potential for severe storms in cities including Champaign, Decatur, and Springfield.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, daytime highs will remain in the 90s through midweek, with humidity driving heat indices into the 100–115° range. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are possible each day, with Wednesday bringing the greatest storm potential—50–70% coverage and a risk of damaging winds and heavy rainfall.
Storm chances extend across Interstate 72 and I-55 corridors, where saturated ground from recent rains may increase localized flooding threats. Overnight lows in the mid-70s will offer little relief, so residents are urged to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable individuals. Air-conditioned spaces should be prioritized.
The dangerous pattern will break as a cold front moves through late Thursday, dropping highs into the 70s by Friday and easing heat-related hazards across the region.
Warnings remain in effect through at least Wednesday evening, with additional advisories possible as storms develop.
