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Galesburg

QCA cooling centers to open as extreme heat expected

By Linda Cook,

2026-07-24

https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4IX49a_1DcNyNHh00

High heat and humidity readings between 105 and 110 degrees are in the National Weather Service forecast starting at noon Sunday, July 26t, and continuing through Monday, July 27, according to a news release. As a result, the Knox County Emergency Management Agency will monitor local weather conditions, and these locations will be available as cooling centers next week.

  • Knox County YMCA – 1324 W. Carl Sandburg Dr. (Monday through Thursday 5 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday 5 a.m.-8 p.m.)
  • Knox County Housing Authority Low Barrier Shelter – 525/527 Iowa Court (24 hours, 7 days per week)
  • The Salvation Army, The Bridge Program – 510 N. Kellogg St., (Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.)
  • Galesburg Public Library – 264 W. Main St.
  • Monday – 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Tuesday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Wednesday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Thursday 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
  • Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Williamsfield Fire Station – East Gale Street/North Chicago Street (Sunday beginning at noon, Monday and Tuesday, open 24 hours)
  • Oneida Fire Station – 210 N. Sage St. (Monday through Tuesday, open 24 hours)
  • Wataga Fire Station – 310 Willard St. (Monday through Tuesday, open 24 hours)

Heat-related illnesses can cause serious injury and even death if unattended. Signs of heat-related illnesses include nausea, dizziness, flushed or pale skin, heavy sweating, and headaches. Persons with heat-related illness should be moved to a cool place, given cool water to drink, and ice packs or cool wet cloths should be applied to the skin. If a victim refuses water, vomits, or loses consciousness, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Tips for staying cool include:

  • Prepare. Discuss heat safety precautions with members of your household. Have a plan for what to do if the power goes out.
  • Dress for the heat. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays. It is also a good idea to wear hats or to use an umbrella when in the sun.
  • Stay hydrated. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine, which dehydrate the body.
  • Eat small meals and eat more often. Avoid high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.
  • Slow down and avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, which is usually in the morning between 4 and 7 a.m. Take frequent breaks.
  • Stay indoors when possible. If air-conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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