Central Illinois is bracing for a return of summer-like heat this week, with temperatures expected to climb into the low to mid-90s. According to the National Weather Service, Springfield is forecast to experience gradually increasing temperatures, with 87°F predicted for Wednesday, 91°F for Thursday, and peaking at 93°F on Friday. While some weather models have hinted at the possibility of temperatures soaring near 100°F, the NWS clarifies that current forecasts indicate a hot spell, but not one that is expected to break historical records. This mid-September heat wave is anticipated to be the most intense since 1939, making it a noteworthy weather event for the region.