Champaign, IL – A run of scorching August sunshine is set to push highs near 91°F through Monday, keeping much of Champaign-Urbana in the 90s for the weekend as heat builds across east central Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the hottest stretch peaks Saturday and Sunday, with little relief at night as lows barely fall below the low 70s. Afternoon humidity and persistent south winds will add to the sticky feel, but skies will stay mostly clear and rain-free until late Monday. By Monday afternoon, there’s a 30% chance for scattered thunderstorms, especially after 1 p.m., potentially bringing gusty winds and brief downpours to city streets and area highways.
🌞 What to Expect: Heatwave and Humidity
Friday & Saturday: Mostly sunny with highs around 90°F, low 72°F. Humidity and south winds will make it feel even hotter, so take necessary precautions if you’re spending time outdoors.
Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 90°F, low 72°F. Hot conditions continue, with minimal relief at night.
Monday: Mostly sunny in the morning, but thunderstorms are expected after 1 p.m.. High of 90°F, low 71°F. Gusty winds and brief downpours are possible as storms move in.
Tuesday: Chance of showers and thunderstorms in the morning, followed by mostly sunny skies later. High of 89°F, low 70°F. Temperatures will be slightly cooler than the weekend.
🌡️ Heat Safety: Hydration is Key
The heat will make it feel sticky and uncomfortable, especially for those planning outdoor events, festivals, or back-to-school shopping. Be sure to:
Hydrate regularly and seek shade when outdoors.
Check on neighbors and pets, especially those who may be sensitive to the heat.
Limit strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
Stay cool and monitor the sky for any changing weather, particularly on Monday when storms could disrupt outdoor activities.
Fire Danger:
South winds could gust up to 17 mph, raising fire danger in dry fields. Be cautious around open flames or any activities that could spark fires, particularly on Saturday and Sunday.
🌧️ Storm Risk: Monday Afternoon and Evening
The chance for thunderstorms increases Monday afternoon, especially after 1 p.m.. Gusty winds, lightning, and brief downpours are possible. The greatest risk for rain will continue into Monday night and Tuesday, but the heatwave will break by midweek, with a return to seasonable temperatures and scattered showers.
🌤️ Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL
Friday, August 11:
Mostly sunny, high 90°F, low 72°F
Hot and sunny with no rain expected.
Saturday, August 12:
Sunny, high 91°F, low 72°F
Continued heat with clear skies.
Sunday, August 13:
Mostly sunny, high 90°F, low 72°F
Another hot day with no rain.
Monday, August 14:
Mostly sunny early, thunderstorms possible after 1 p.m., high 90°F, low 71°F
Gusty winds and brief downpours from afternoon storms.
Tuesday, August 15:
Chance of showers and thunderstorms, mostly sunny later, high 89°F, low 70°F
Cooling off with some rain expected before sunshine returns.
