Springfield, Ill. – Thunderstorms are expected to roll across central Illinois Wednesday as a cold front moves through, bringing a sharp cooldown that will end the week with highs in the low to mid-70s.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, storms will develop mainly along and north of I-72 Wednesday afternoon and evening, with rain chances as high as 80 percent in some areas. Lows will dip into the upper 40s to low 50s Wednesday night, making for a noticeable change after highs in the 80s earlier this week.
Cities including Springfield, Decatur, and Bloomington could see heavy downpours Wednesday evening, creating slick roads for commuters. The NWS advises drivers to allow extra time and be alert for ponding on highways and rural routes. Thursday through Saturday will stay dry but cooler, with highs topping out between 70 and 74 degrees.
Residents are encouraged to keep rain gear handy for Wednesday and to prepare for cooler nights by late week, as temperatures fall into the upper 40s and lower 50s. More unsettled weather may return by early next week.
Five Day Forecast for Springfield, IL
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, highs 80 to 84.
- Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms, highs 79 to 84.
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, highs 69 to 73.
- Friday: Slight chance of showers, highs 70 to 77.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, highs 70 to 74.
