Springfield, Illinois – After a warm and smoky start to the week, central Illinois faces a soggy stretch with thunderstorms and heavy rain expected through Friday, especially along and west of I-55. Some areas could see more than 2 inches of rainfall, bringing the risk of localized flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, high temperatures on Monday and Tuesday will rise into the upper 80s, with clearer skies developing late Tuesday as smoke from western wildfires dissipates. Scattered storms are likely to begin Tuesday afternoon west of I-55 as a slow-moving cold front pushes east.
Rain chances will ramp up across central and southeast Illinois by Wednesday, with storms continuing through Friday. Cities such as Bloomington, Decatur, and Champaign should expect downpours, lightning, and brief wind gusts, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. Roadways like I-55 and I-72 could see reduced visibility and standing water during heavier cells.
Drivers are urged to monitor changing road conditions, avoid flooded areas, and allow extra travel time. Residents should also prepare for brief power outages and keep weather radios and alerts enabled.
Rain and storm activity is expected to persist through Friday evening, with additional advisories possible midweek.
