DECATUR, IL. (WAND) - A dangerous heat wave is bearing down on Central Illinois, bringing extreme conditions that will impact everything from your commute to outdoor plans through Thursday night.

An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect now through midnight Thursday. Feels-like temperatures will soar to 105-110 degrees through Thursday afternoon under mostly sunny skies, making extended time outdoors unsafe.

What to expect through Thursday:

Tuesday's high will reach 92 degrees, but the humidity will make it feel significantly hotter. Wednesday intensifies the danger with a high of 94 degrees, and Thursday peaks at 94 degrees as well. Overnight lows will only dip to the mid-70s, providing little relief from the oppressive heat.

The combination of high temperatures and humidity creates a dangerous situation for anyone spending time outdoors. Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly during extreme heat events. Limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening hours, stay hydrated, and check on elderly neighbors and family members who may be more vulnerable.

Relief arrives Friday, but storms move in:

A slight break comes Friday with a high of 93 degrees and isolated storm chances beginning to move into the area. Scattered storms will continue through the weekend, with Saturday's storms helping to drop humidity levels. While these storms are expected to be scattered and strong, the severe weather risk remains low. Feels-like temperatures will drop into the 90s once the storms pass.

By Sunday, highs will fall to 91 degrees, and Monday brings further relief with a high of 88 degrees and lows dropping to 70 degrees.

What you should do:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty

  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

  • Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles

  • Check on vulnerable family members and neighbors

  • Adjust your commute if possible — leave early to avoid peak heat hours

  • Keep your air conditioning maintained and have a backup plan if it fails

Stay with the WAND Weather team for updates on the heat warning and any changes to the storm chances this weekend.

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