The National Weather Service in Lincoln…Dangerously hot and humid conditions will develop today, as a heat wave spreads over the central third of the nation. An Excessive Heat Warning is in effect from Thursday through Saturday over our entire area, and south of Rushville to Danville on Sunday. Heat index values are forecast to approach or even exceed 110 degrees for the first time in central and southeast Illinois since late June/early July of 2012! This type of heat will quickly lead to heat-related illnesses for people who spend significant amounts of time outdoors, or who do not have access to air conditioning. Isolated to scattered thunderstorms may offer brief relief from the heat each day, but that will also add to the humidity, keeping the heat index at dangerous levels. Minor relief is anticipated on Sunday north of Rushville to Danville, but relatively “cooler” air over a majority of the area is not expected until Monday.