(Springfield, IL)  — With the combination of hot temperatures and high humidity over the next few days, the National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat watch that will be in effect from this afternoon through Sunday evening for a large portion of the state. Heat index values will peak near 105 degrees each afternoon. Many communities will host cooling centers.  Benton City Hall, Salem Township Hospital, Clay County Hospital in Flora, and Odin Care Center in Odin are among them. Conditions will lead to an increased risk of heat related stress and illness. The very young, the elderly, those without air conditioning, and those participating in strenuous outdoor activities will be the most susceptible. Also, car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes. During this heat wave, you should drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors. If you have outdoor pets, make sure they have plenty of fresh water and shade to stay cool. If you can, take them inside out of the heat.