Springfield, Illinois – Strong to severe storms could impact Central Illinois within hours Thursday evening, bringing lightning, damaging winds, and rapid weather changes before temperatures plunge into a late-season freeze by Friday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, storms will develop this evening with the potential for all hazards, especially along and south of the I-72 corridor, including Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign. Conditions will shift quickly overnight as colder air moves in, setting up a sharp drop in temperatures by Friday.
By Friday night into early Saturday morning, lows are expected to fall between 25 and 31 degrees, cold enough to damage or kill sensitive vegetation that emerged during recent warm weather. Areas north of I-70 could see temperatures in the low 30s, while southern sections remain slightly milder but still at risk for frost.
Dry air moves in for the weekend with sunshine Saturday and increasing clouds Sunday, offering a brief break from active weather. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items ahead of storms and protect plants by Friday evening.
Warmer air and another round of rain and storms are expected to return by early next week, with additional advisories possible.
