Weather
Springfield, IL Weather Nov. 3: 40 MPH Gusts, Severe Storm Risk
Springfield, IL — Central Illinois residents should prepare for a windy and potentially stormy Tuesday, Nov. 3, as a strong weather system brings gusts approaching 40 mph, locally heavy rainfall and t
By Mason Reid · 2026-11-02T22:02:54.748Z
Springfield, IL — Central Illinois residents should prepare for a windy and potentially stormy Tuesday, Nov. 3, as a strong weather system brings gusts approaching 40 mph, locally heavy rainfall and the possibility of isolated severe thunderstorms.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, winds will strengthen Tuesday morning, with the strongest gusts expected from midmorning through the afternoon. Thunderstorm chances will increase later in the day and continue Tuesday night.
Wind Gusts Could Reach 40 MPH Tuesday
Forecasters expect southerly to southeasterly winds to increase across central Illinois, particularly in communities north of Interstate 70.
Areas including Springfield, Peoria, Bloomington, Decatur and Jacksonville could experience gusts ranging from 30 to 40 mph.
The strongest winds could make travel difficult for high profile vehicles, especially on exposed highways and rural roads.
Residents are encouraged to secure patio furniture, trash cans and other lightweight outdoor objects before conditions deteriorate.
Heavy Rain and Strong Storms Possible
Rain chances will increase Tuesday, with precipitation probabilities ranging from 30% to 90%, primarily west of Interstate 57.
By Tuesday night, rain chances rise to 70% to 90% across portions of the region.
A few thunderstorms could become strong to severe, particularly across west central Illinois.
Locally heavy rainfall could create reduced visibility and standing water on roads during heavier downpours.
Temperatures Near 78 Before Cooler Weather Arrives
Despite the approaching storms, Tuesday afternoon temperatures could reach between 70 and 78 degrees.
Wednesday will bring highs ranging from 58 to 68 degrees as showers gradually diminish during the afternoon.
The cooling trend continues into Friday, when highs are expected to fall into the mid 50s to around 60 degrees.
By Friday night, temperatures could drop to between 36 and 40 degrees.
Residents should monitor updated forecasts throughout Tuesday, particularly during the afternoon and evening when thunderstorms could become stronger.
For updated forecasts and weather alerts, visit weather.gov/ilx .