Champaign, Illinois – Thunderstorms and dangerous heat will grip central Illinois starting Sunday, bringing potential travel slowdowns, localized flooding, and serious health risks through midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, Sunday afternoon will see highs near 88°F with scattered storms developing after 1 p.m. West-southwest winds may gust up to 16 mph. Rainfall could total over a quarter inch in some areas, with 70% chances of precipitation in Champaign and surrounding counties. Thunderstorm activity will continue into Sunday night, tapering off by early Monday morning.
Temperatures will remain a concern even without rain. Heat index values are expected to reach 95 to 100 degrees both Sunday and Monday. This combination of heat and humidity, especially in urban areas like Champaign and along I-72, could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and strain local power grids.
Air quality also remains a concern. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued advisories for east-central Illinois due to lingering smoke and ozone levels from July 4th fireworks.
Residents should limit strenuous outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and ensure elderly family members have access to cooling resources.
No organized severe weather is expected at this time, but spotter activation is not anticipated, and the potential for locally heavy rainfall remains.
☀️ Five-Day Forecast: Sunday, July 6 – Thursday, July 11
- Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms likely after 1 p.m., high 88°F, winds WSW 7–10 mph
- Monday: Partly sunny, high 86°F, NNE wind around 6 mph
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 90°F
- Wednesday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms, mostly cloudy, high near 89°F
- Thursday: Continued storm chances, mostly sunny, high near 89°F
