SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Central Illinois is bracing for a late-summer heat wave that’s expected to bring highs near 96 degrees this Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Lincoln. The intense heat will stretch through the weekend and linger into early next week, keeping residents across the region sweating it out.
Weekend Forecast: Hot, Dry, and Humid
Temperatures are already climbing, with Friday’s highs forecast to range between 89 and 93 degrees. But the worst of the heat will hit Saturday and Sunday, when daytime highs will push toward 96°F, especially in urban centers like:
Springfield
Decatur
Bloomington
In these areas, heat index values may feel even hotter due to humidity and the heat-retaining effects of concrete and pavement.
Heat Wave Highlights:
Friday: 89–93°F
Saturday–Sunday: 94–96°F
Monday: Low to mid-90s
Nighttime lows: Mid 60s (rural) to upper 60s (urban)
Storm Chances Are Slim
While east-central counties and parts of the Illinois River Valley might see isolated storms Saturday or Sunday evening, the chance of rain remains low — only around 20%, with minimal rainfall expected. This means most areas will remain dry through Monday, with little relief from the heat.
Stay Safe in the Heat
Officials are urging residents to take heat safety precautions, especially during the hottest part of the day (typically 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Here are some key tips:
Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours
Drink plenty of water
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
Check on seniors, children, and pets
Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle
The prolonged use of air conditioners is also expected to raise energy demand, which could put strain on the power grid, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
Relief May Be Delayed
Forecasters say the heat will linger into early next week, with no strong cold front or significant rainfall expected before Tuesday or Wednesday. If temperatures and humidity remain high, the NWS may issue additional heat advisories to warn the public.
Central Illinois is heading into a hot and mostly dry weekend, with temperatures nearing 96 degrees and little to no rainfall in sight. Whether you’re in Springfield, Bloomington, or Decatur, it’s important to stay cool, hydrated, and safe. Relief from the heat may not come until mid-next week, so plan accordingly and look out for those who may be most vulnerable.
