Dangerous heat to beset region

Cooling centers to open         

[JULY 23, 2005]  Health and emergency officials began preparations days in advance of the current announcement of the dangerous heat that that has arrived. Heat can affect health and even threaten the lives of younger, older and people who are in frail condition. Four cooling centers have been established for Logan County citizens in need of a cool refuge. The centers will be opened as needed.

Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital will accept walk-ins from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Three other support centers -- the Logan County Paramedic Association building, the Logan County Safety Complex and Central Illinois Economic Development office -- will be opened if needed. You can watch LDN for these announcements.

Forecasters predict that the heat advisory will remain in effect for all of central and southeastern Illinois through Monday. High temperatures will combine with high humidity to produce dangerous heat index values around 105 to 110.

A cold front is expected to approach the area later in the day on Tuesday, along with scattered thunderstorms. This is anticipated to bring relief from the heat. Highs by Wednesday are expected to be closer to seasonal normals in the mid-80s.

Saturday -- Highs 95 to 99; heat index around 105

Saturday night -- Lows in the mid-70s

Sunday -- Highs 98 to 102; heat index 105 to 110

Sunday night -- Lows in the mid-70s

Monday -- Highs 95 to 99; heat index around 105

Monday night -- Lows 70 to 75

Tuesday -- Highs 90 to 95; heat index around 100

Wednesday -- Highs in the mid-80s

[National Weather Service; Logan County Emergency Management; LDN]