Springfield, Illinois – Wind gusts up to 45 mph could whip through Central Illinois on Friday, raising concerns for wildfire spread and blowing dust, especially in western counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, sustained south winds will pick up late Friday morning, shifting westward as a cold front sweeps through by evening. Peak gusts between 35 and 45 mph are expected across areas including Jacksonville, Macomb, and Galesburg. Relative humidity values will drop to as low as 20–25%, creating dry conditions ripe for fast-moving grass or brush fires.
The fire risk is especially elevated in western Illinois counties where vegetation remains dry and rainfall has been limited. Residents near U.S. Route 67 and I-55 are advised to avoid outdoor burning and secure loose objects that could be blown by strong winds.
The NWS warns that blowing dust may reduce visibility along rural roads, especially in open farmland. Conditions are expected to ease after sunset Friday, but updates will follow if humidity drops lower or wind speeds increase.
