Weather
Central Illinois Weather Alert: 60 MPH Winds, Quarter-Size Hail Oct 13
Springfield, IL – Central Illinois residents face a dramatic weather shift this week as potentially record breaking October heat gives way to thunderstorms Tuesday night, with isolated damaging wind g
By Lena Wood · 2026-10-12T09:05:14.193Z
Springfield, IL – Central Illinois residents face a dramatic weather shift this week as potentially record breaking October heat gives way to thunderstorms Tuesday night, with isolated damaging wind gusts reaching 60 mph and hail as large as quarters possible in parts of the region.
According to the National Weather Service NWS in Lincoln, a cold front arriving Tuesday evening, October 13, will trigger showers and thunderstorms across central Illinois. The Storm Prediction Center has placed areas primarily west of Interstate 55 under a Level 1 of 5 marginal risk for severe weather.
The greatest concern begins around mid evening Tuesday and continues overnight , when thunderstorms could produce isolated wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail reaching approximately one inch in diameter. Forecasters indicate tornadoes are unlikely.
Communities near Peoria, Galesburg, Macomb, Jacksonville and surrounding areas should monitor developing conditions, particularly as storms approach after dark.
Before the storms arrive, summerlike temperatures will dominate the region.
Monday's highs are forecast between 88 and 92 degrees, with Tuesday reaching 87 to 94 degrees. The NWS says some locations could break daily temperature records or experience their latest 90 degree reading on record.
Heavy rainfall is another concern. Forecasters estimate a 70% to 90% chance of receiving at least one inch of rain between Tuesday night and Thursday night, with a 30% to 40% chance of two inches or more in areas north of Interstate 70.
Temperatures will gradually decline Wednesday and Thursday, with highs ranging from the 70s into the lower 80s.
By Friday, substantially cooler conditions arrive, with highs expected between 58 and 64 degrees.
Residents traveling along Interstate 55, Interstate 74 and surrounding highways should remain alert for reduced visibility, heavy downpours and potentially hazardous driving conditions during thunderstorms.
The NWS recommends staying weather aware, especially for outdoor activities, and being prepared to move indoors when storms approach.