The dangerous heat that settled into the Peoria area on Sunday is expected to stretch through much of the rest of the work week.
The National Weather Service in Lincoln says high temperatures in the 90s and high humidity are expected every day through Thursday. An excessive heat warning is in effect for central and southeastern Illinois.
Heat indexes are expected to hit or surpass 110 degrees on Tuesday and Wednesday in Peoria.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency in Chicago recommends staying inside as much as possible. If you must be outside, find shade and wear a hat wide enough to protect your face. Loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing is recommended. Drink plenty of water even if you're not thirsty. FEMA also warns to watch out for the signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If a person loses consciousness or starts to seem confused, move the person to a cooler area, loosen their clothing, and call 911. Water or ice can be used to cool them out.
Vulnerable populations include pregnant people, newborns, children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
People or pets should not be left in parked cars.
Cooling centers are open throughout the Peoria area. They include:
- Peoria Police Department - 600 SW Adams, Peoria; Monday-Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Peoria fire stations - open 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Visitors will be asked to step out during a fire-related emergency
- Dream Center - 714 Hamilton Blvd., Peoria; 24/7 cooling center for eligible populations, which do not include single men without children or a significant other.
- Peoria Rescue Mission, 601 SW Adams; 24/7 cooling center for single men, and anyone during the day
- Esther House, 6847 N. Allen Rd., Peoria; 24/7 cooling center for single women
- East Peoria Civic Plaza, 401 W. Washington St., East Peoria; open Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- EastSide Centre, 1 EastSide Dr., East Peoria; Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday-Sunday 7 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Salvation Army Pekin Rust Transitional Center, 235 Derby St., Pekin - 24/7 cooling center
- Pekin Outreach Center, 515 Elizabeth St. Pekin; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Salvation Army Canton and Fulton County 360 Life Center, 176 S. 1st Ave., Canton; Monday-Wednesday 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
