Springfield, IL – Unseasonably warm temperatures in the 80s across central Illinois today will give way to thunderstorms tonight and a sharp temperature drop heading into Friday.
According to the US National Weather Service in Central Illinois, a storm system will move through the region late Thursday afternoon into the evening, bringing showers and thunderstorms. Some storms could be strong, especially during the evening hours.
Rain chances will continue overnight, with a few lingering showers possible into early Friday, mainly south of Interstate 70.
Behind the system, much colder air will quickly move in. High temperatures Friday are expected to fall into the upper 40s to low 50s — a dramatic shift from Thursday’s near-record warmth.
Forecasters warn that a hard freeze is possible Friday night, particularly in areas that saw early plant growth during the recent warm spell. Sensitive vegetation could be at risk if temperatures drop below freezing for several hours.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for rapidly changing conditions, from storms tonight to significantly colder temperatures by the end of the week.
Drivers should remain alert for wet roads during the evening commute, while homeowners may want to take precautions to protect plants ahead of the potential freeze.
