Springfield, Illinois – Dangerous heat continues to blanket central and eastern Illinois, with heat index values climbing as high as 105°F through 7 p.m. Saturday, putting residents at increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a heat advisory remains in effect for 18 counties across the state, including Sangamon, Macon, Christian, Coles, and Lawrence. The advisory, which was extended Friday afternoon, warns of oppressive humidity and dangerously high feels-like temperatures stretching into Saturday evening.
Cities like Springfield, Decatur, Mattoon, and Robinson will see peak heat during the mid- to late-afternoon hours. Outdoor workers and vulnerable populations—including the elderly and those without air conditioning—should take immediate precautions. Hydration, limited sun exposure, and wellness checks on neighbors are strongly advised.
Cooling centers remain open in key cities, and residents are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities between noon and 6 p.m., when conditions will be most hazardous. This advisory covers the first major heatwave since early July and follows a string of 90°+ days across the region.
Conditions should ease by Saturday night, but further advisories could be issued if the pattern persists into next week.
