A significant weather system is set to bring substantial rain to parts of central and northwest Illinois late Thursday night. Residents should prepare for possible thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and isolated hail, especially north of I-72. The National Weather Service advises that the heaviest rain is expected to move in around 10 p.m., continuing overnight.
According to the National Weather Service, areas north of the Illinois River have a 20% or greater chance of seeing over an inch of rainfall. Drivers along I-72 should expect wet and potentially hazardous conditions overnight. The heaviest rain will fall near Peoria, Pontiac, and Galesburg, with potential flooding concerns.
The public is encouraged to clear gutters and drains to prevent localized flooding. South of the affected area, temperatures will remain warm and winds will strengthen into next week. This system should clear by Friday morning, but another storm front isn’t expected until Tuesday.