Stay safe this week; CUPHD, local partners offer relief during extreme heat emergency

CUPHD and local agencies offer shelter and cooling resources as heat grips central Illinois this week as heatwave threatens East Central Illinois this week.


CHAMPAIGN - An intense summer heatwave has settled over East Central Illinois this week, with dangerously high temperatures and stifling humidity expected to persist through the weekend. The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory in effect through 7 p.m. Thursday, warning that heat index values could soar between 105 and 112 degrees during the afternoon hours.

Daytime highs are forecast to climb into the 90s each day from Wednesday through Friday. Combined with oppressive humidity, outdoor conditions will feel considerably hotter, pushing the region into a level of extreme heat that poses significant health risks. Overnight, little relief is expected as temperatures will linger in the mid-70s, increasing the threat of cumulative heat exposure.

The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) is urging residents to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves, their families, neighbors, and pets. Children, seniors over 65, people with disabilities, and animals are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses due to their reduced ability to regulate body temperature and access hydration.

Precautions to Avoid Heat-Related Illness

  • Stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least 48 to 64 ounces of cool, non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages daily. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics and can increase the risk of dehydration. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty–drink regularly throughout the day.
  • Limit activity during peak heat. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day. If outdoor activity is necessary, take frequent breaks in the shade or a cool environment.
  • Wear light-colored, lightweight clothing. Breathable fabrics and light colors help your body stay cooler.
  • Cool down when overheated. Take a cool shower or sponge bath if you begin to feel too warm.
  • Seek air-conditioned spaces. If you feel overly warm, move to an air-conditioned environment. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider visiting a mall, library, grocery store, or other public space to cool off.

Common heat-related illnesses range from heat exhaustion to potentially fatal heat stroke. The body's internal temperature can spike rapidly—up to 106 degrees or more in under 15 minutes—without proper cooling measures, resulting in permanent damage or death. Warning signs include heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and rapid pulse. If symptoms of heat stroke occur, immediate medical attention is critical.

Several community partners have mobilized resources in response to the prolonged heat emergency. A temporary 24-hour emergency shelter is available through Saturday, July 26, for adults experiencing homelessness.

Operated through a collaboration involving Cunningham Township, CUPHD, The Salvation Army of Champaign, Friend in Me, and the City of Champaign Township, the shelter accepts individuals referred through Strides Shelter. Intakes are conducted daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with transportation to the shelter provided after evening check-in between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.

The following is a list of additional cooling centers available throughout the local area, courtesy of Champaign County Emergency Management Agency. Please note that some are only available during business hours.

  • 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, including libraries and municipal, state, and federal buildings, during normal business hours.

CUPHD also maintains a Google map of cooling center locations: https://bit.ly/keepsafeChampaign

CUPHD also operates a kid-friendly cooling center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, offering free Wi-Fi, books, and entertainment for children. Beginning July 25 and running through August 11, CUPHD will serve free breakfast and lunch to children under 18 as part of its summer meals program.

With hot and dry conditions expected to continue beyond midweek and limited relief at night, area residents are encouraged to remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day, limit sun exposure, and stay informed through local weather and public health updates.

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