Effingham, Illinois – Residents across central Illinois are facing dangerously high temperatures today as a heat advisory blankets the region, driving heat index values up to 105 degrees from Taylorville to Paris.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. Wednesday, covering Christian, Moultrie, Douglas, Coles, Edgar, Shelby, Cumberland, Clark, Effingham, Jasper, Crawford, Clay, Richland, and Lawrence counties. Cities including Effingham, Charleston, Mattoon, Robinson, Newton, and Lawrenceville will experience the brunt of the heat and humidity.
The advisory warns that prolonged exposure could cause heat-related illnesses. Roads such as U.S. 51 and Illinois Route 16 may see reduced foot traffic as locals are urged to avoid outdoor activities, especially between noon and early evening. Emergency managers are advising residents to stay hydrated, remain indoors where possible, and check in on elderly neighbors or those without reliable air conditioning.
Schools and childcare centers in places like Shelbyville and Flora are taking extra precautions, limiting outdoor activities and encouraging frequent water breaks. This surge in summer heat is the most intense so far this July, following a series of scattered storms last week.
Conditions should improve after 7 p.m., but weather officials caution that similar advisories could return if the heat persists. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates and take all necessary safety steps while the advisory is active.
