Springfield, Ill. – A dangerous mix of extreme heat and scattered severe storms will grip central Illinois through the weekend, with heat indices pushing 105 degrees Thursday and strong wind gusts threatening isolated damage.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a heat advisory remains in effect as highs reach 91–98° today, with the heat index soaring between 99–107°. Thunderstorms developing this afternoon and evening may be strong to severe, with damaging wind gusts the primary concern. Storm coverage ranges from 20–30% today, increasing to 60% by Friday and Monday.
Cities including Bloomington, Springfield, Champaign, and Decatur should prepare for triple-digit heat index values and brief but intense downpours. Scattered storms each afternoon may bring localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Roads like I-55 and I-72 could see brief visibility issues during storm bursts.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Cooling centers are open in several counties including Macon and McLean. Charge mobile devices and avoid travel during peak storm windows late afternoon to early evening.
Heat and storm threats will persist daily through Monday, with another round of strong storms possible late Sunday.
🌤 Five-Day Forecast for Central Illinois:
- Thursday: Scattered storms; High 91–98°, Low 71–76°; Heat index 99–107°
- Friday: Showers/storms; High 84–94°, Low 69–74°; Heat index 89–102°
- Saturday: PM storms; High 87–91°, Low 70–74°; Heat index 92–101°
- Sunday: Scattered storms; High 88–93°, Low 70–74°; Heat index 95–105°
- Monday: Thunderstorms likely; High 85–90°, Low 70–74°; Heat index 90–99°
