SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Central Illinois is bracing for a sharp temperature plunge this weekend as a strong cold front sweeps across the state, ending the stretch of mild fall weather. The National Weather Service in Lincoln said highs in the 60s Thursday and Friday will give way to blustery 40s Saturday and barely 40 degrees by Sunday afternoon.
According to the NWS Lincoln office, rain chances will return Thursday night into Friday, mainly east of I-55, followed by another chance for scattered showers Saturday afternoon. A few of these showers may briefly mix with snow north of I-74 early Sunday, though forecasters say the chance for measurable snow remains low—around 20 percent.
Behind the front, temperatures will drop steadily through the weekend. Lows will fall into the 20s by Sunday night, marking the coldest air of the season so far. Gusty northwest winds will make it feel even colder, especially during the Sunday morning and evening hours.
Drivers and residents should prepare for the sudden chill, as wind chills could dip into the teens early next week. Outdoor plans Friday night into Sunday will require warm layers, and gardeners should protect any remaining sensitive plants from frost and freeze conditions.
