Springfield, Illinois – A sharp cooldown will sweep across Illinois this weekend, sending temperatures tumbling from springlike 60s into the 30s with even a chance of light snow by Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, unseasonably warm air will linger through Thursday before a strong system pushes through the state. Scattered thunderstorms are expected Thursday, some of which could turn strong, followed by gusty winds and falling temperatures into Friday and the weekend.
Statewide, highs that reach the mid to upper 60s midweek will slide into the 40s Friday and only the upper 30s to low 40s by Saturday. Overnight lows will drop into the 20s by Saturday night across much of central Illinois, including Peoria, Bloomington and Decatur. Light rain during the day Saturday could mix with or change to snow as colder air deepens, especially north of Interstate 72.
Drivers should prepare for wet roads Friday transitioning to sharply colder conditions this weekend. Secure outdoor items ahead of gusty winds and monitor updates if traveling Saturday night, when slick spots could develop.
The colder pattern holds into early next week, and additional advisories could be issued if snow chances increase.
Five Day Forecast for Springfield, Illinois
Wednesday: Partly sunny and breezy, high 66-71.
Thursday: Scattered thunderstorms, high 65-69.
Friday: Breezy and cooler, high 42-50.
Saturday: Rain likely, turning colder, high 38-44.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy and cold, morning low in the 20s, afternoon highs near 40.
