Extreme Heat Warning issued for Illinois

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for east central Illinois until Friday at 7:00 p.m. because of high heat and humidity levels. 

• Heat index values 105 to 110 expected.
• PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
  • Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room.
  • Stay out of the sun.
  • Check up on relatives and neighbors.
  • Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

Updated Thursday, July 2 at 6:00 p.m.

From the National Weather Service in Central Illinois: Heat index values of 100-105 degrees will be common again on Friday, from late morning into early evening. Independence Day will also see a heat index around 100. However, an increase in clouds and rain chances may result in these being a bit lower on Saturday.

Updated Thursday, July 2 at 8:15 a.m.

From IPM meteorologist Andrew Pritchard: Hot and humid conditions linger through the weekend, but storms return to the forecast tomorrow as well. Big time severe weather isn’t likely this weekend, but it’s possible a couple storms could become rowdy locally, or that we see a cluster of storms move in with heavy rain and gusty winds on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. There should be plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun, but stay hydrated and keep an eye on the radar while you’re celebrating.

Updated Wednesday, July 1 at 8:40 a.m.

From IPM meteorologist Andrew Pritchard: Heat and humidity remains the main weather story with afternoon temps again climbing into the middle 90s today and tomorrow. As we head into the 4th of July holiday weekend look for hot and muggy conditions to continue, with a chance of summertime pop-up storm and storm clusters. The weekend won’t be a rain-out, but we’ll probably need to babysit the radar a little bit if you’ve got outdoor plans. 

Updated Tuesday, June 30 at 8:00 p.m.

From the National Weather Service in Central Illinois: Daily heat index values are forecast to range from 100-110°F through Thursday. Less oppressive heat and humidity return to close the week as nearby thunderstorms introduce clouds and rain-cooled air.

Updated Tuesday, June 30 at 8:00 a.m.

From IPM meteorologist Andrew Pritchard: An extreme heat warning is in effect through Thursday evening in Champaign County and surrounding areas of central Illinois. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the middle 90s each day this week with high humidity levels sending the heat index or what our bodies actually experience into the 100 to 110 degree range. Additionally, overnight lows will only fall into the middle 70s, making it difficult for those without access to air conditioning. To find relief, avoid strenuous outdoor work during the peak heating of the afternoon, wear light colored, loose-fitting clothing when outdoors, and drink plenty of fluids. Even with the extreme heat warning expiring on Thursday, expect a hot, muggy, and at times stormy Fourth of July holiday weekend.

Updated Monday, June 29 at 8:00 p.m.

Here’s a list of cooling centers:

Updated Monday, June 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Hot and humid conditions will grip central Illinois through at least Thursday. During this time, daily temperatures will warm into the lower 90s and overnight lows will only fall into the mid-to-upper 70s.

Updated Monday, June 29 at 7:36 a.m.

Here’s the Monday morning forecast from IPM meteorologist Andrew Pritchard:

Updated Sunday, June 28 at 2:18 p.m.

From the National Weather Service in Central Illinois: Dangerous heat and humidity will dominate central and southeast Illinois. Hot and humid weather will dominate the area for the next several days.