The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a Heat Advisory for portions of Southern Illinois
The advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. Tuesday through 7 p.m. Wednesday, with peak heat index values expected to reach as high as 105 degrees.
High temperatures Tuesday and Wednesday are forecast to reach the mid to upper 90s, with high humidity pushing heat index readings into the triple digits. Thursday will remain hot, with highs in the low to mid 90s and only isolated chances for rain offering little relief.
The National Weather Service says the combination of heat and humidity could lead to heat-related illnesses. Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned areas when possible, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and check on relatives, neighbors and pets.
Some relief is expected toward the end of the week, when temperatures are forecast to gradually fall closer to seasonal averages, with highs returning to the mid 80s.