Central Illinois faces a wave of dangerously high temperatures and humidity this week, with heat index values projected to reach between 105–112°F. The National Weather Service anticipates the most severe heat on Wednesday and Thursday, with intense conditions possibly lingering through the weekend. Overnight temperatures are expected to offer minimal relief, dropping only into the mid-70s.
The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) has issued an urgent call for residents to take precautions, warning that extreme heat poses serious health risks for everyone in the community.
The Dangers of Extreme Heat
Heat-related illnesses occur when the body becomes unable to regulate its temperature, especially as it rises rapidly during periods of high heat and humidity. When the ability to cool via sweating is overwhelmed, body temperature can climb dangerously high. In severe cases, temperatures of 106°F or higher can develop within as little as 10–15 minutes, resulting in death or permanent disability without immediate emergency care.
Warning signs of heat-related illness include:
- Body temperature of 103°F or higher
- Red, hot, dry skin with little or no perspiration
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness or confusion
- Nausea
Children, adults over 65, and pets are at higher risk because they often struggle with temperature regulation, dehydration, and limited access to fluids. Officials stress: never leave children, seniors, or pets in parked cars—interior temperatures can soar rapidly, resulting in fatal consequences within minutes.
How to Stay Safe in the Heat
Follow these tips to prevent heat-related illnesses:
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least 48–64oz of cool, non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages daily. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these can increase dehydration.
- Don’t wait to feel thirsty: Drink water regularly throughout the day.
- Limit physical activity: Reduce exertion during the hottest hours. Take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas if outside work or exercise is unavoidable.
- Dress appropriately: Choose lightweight, light-colored, and breathable clothing.
- Use cooling methods: Cool showers or sponge baths can help lower body temperature.
- Seek air conditioning: Spend time in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider public places like malls, libraries, and grocery stores.
Emergency Shelter and Cooling Center Resources
In response to the forecast, Cunningham Township, CUPHD, The Salvation Army of Champaign, and Friend in Me—along with local partners—have established a 24-hour emergency shelter from Sunday, July 20, through Saturday, July 26. This shelter serves adults experiencing homelessness, who must first complete an intake at Strides Shelter between 9:00a.m. and 5:00p.m., then return for evening check-in between 7:00p.m. and 10:00p.m. Transportation from Strides Shelter to The Salvation Army is provided.
Additional Cooling Centers
The following facilities are open as cooling centers (some during business hours only):
- Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, 201 W. Kenyon Rd., Champaign
- Lincoln Square Mall, 201 Lincoln Square, Urbana
- Market Place Mall, 2000 N. Neil St., Champaign
- Forum Fitness Center, 200 W. Flessner Ave., Rantoul
- Rantoul Police Department, 109 E. Grove Ave., Rantoul
- Champaign Park District—Leonhard Center, 2307 Sangamon Dr., Champaign
- Champaign Park District—Martens Center, 1515 N. Market St., Champaign
- Urbana Park District Health and Wellness Facility, 2002 E. Washington St., Urbana
- Public buildings (libraries and government offices) during business hours
A full map of cooling centers is available via CUPHD’s website.
The CUPHD location is a kid-friendly cooling center, open weekdays from 8:00a.m.–5:00p.m. Between July 25 and August 11, free breakfast and lunch will be provided for children 18 and under, along with access to TV, free Wi-Fi, and books.
