Midwest heat wave triggers alerts in Illinois and Indiana

A dangerous heat wave is sweeping the Midwest. In central Illinois, the National Weather Service forecasts afternoon highs in the lower 90s with heat‑index values climbing into the upper 90s and up to 105 °F through Saturday. Scattered thunderstorms are expected later in the week, but officials warn residents to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated and keep children and pets out of parked cars.

In Indiana, a heat advisory remains in effect with temperatures in the low to mid‑90s and heat‑index values near or above 100 °F. An air‑quality alert has been issued for parts of central and north‑west Indiana as smoke from Canadian wildfires drifts into the region, creating a hazy sky and elevated ozone levels. Authorities advise sensitive individuals to reduce prolonged outdoor exposure while scattered rain and storms are forecast later in the week.