Most of Central Illinois is expected to remain hot and humid through Saturday.  The afternoon heat index values will climb to near 100 degrees, maybe higher as we approach the weekend. Showers and thunderstorms will be possible from this (Thursday) afternoon through Saturday evening, with the best chances in southeastern Illinois. Isolated to scattered rains showers are probable but there's a marginal risk of severe weather Saturday afternoon into the evening, mainly for damaging winds. Southeast Illinois also faces a marginal risk of excessive rainfall this afternoon, with eastern Illinois at risk Friday afternoon.

The NWS points to a weakening cold front will move through Central Illinois this morning but is expected to back off this afternoon. This could trigger some isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorm activity, particularly in southeast Illinois, where tropical moisture is moving in from the south.

Highs today will reach the upper 80s to lower 90s, but with dewpoints in the low to mid 70s, afternoon heat indices will feel closer to the upper 90s to lower 100s. A few storms in southeast Illinois could produce gusty winds and possible funnel clouds into early evening.  Muggy conditions continue.

94.1 WGFA