Springfield, Ill. – A sharp drop in temperatures will sweep across Central Illinois midweek as a strong cold front pushes through, bringing rain chances and some of the coolest air of the season so far. Highs Thursday may struggle to reach the upper 60s, near record levels for early September.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, there is a 70 to 80 percent chance that much of Illinois will see below-normal temperatures from Wednesday through the weekend. The front will also bring a 30 to 40 percent chance of scattered rain Wednesday into Wednesday night, with light showers most likely along the I-72 and I-55 corridors.
Drivers in Bloomington, Peoria, and Decatur should prepare for wet commutes Wednesday evening, while outdoor events in Champaign and Springfield may face delays or cancellations. Cooler air behind the front will linger, keeping highs in the 60s to near 70 through Friday.
Residents are advised to keep jackets handy, limit outdoor work during rain periods, and plan for cooler mornings that may dip into the upper 40s in rural areas.
The cold spell is expected to persist into the weekend, with additional advisories possible if rain chances increase.
