Springfield, Ill. – Drivers along I-55 and I-72 need to prepare now as 40 mph wind gusts and critically dry air elevate the fire danger across central Illinois through Friday evening, with blowing dust capable of reducing visibility during peak travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, warm, dry, and windy conditions will dominate Friday, especially west of I-55 where the driest air and strongest gusts are expected. Relative humidity values will fall sharply while southwest winds increase, creating an environment supportive of rapid fire spread. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and properly secure trailer chains to prevent roadside sparks.
Temperatures will climb into the mid to upper 60s Friday afternoon in Springfield, Decatur, and Jacksonville before falling quickly after sunset. Overnight lows will dip to near 31 degrees, allowing any residual moisture to refreeze on elevated roadways including the I-72 overpasses and rural routes across Sangamon County.
A disturbance moves in Saturday, bringing a 20 percent chance of afternoon rain or snow, mainly east of I-55. Highs will range from the mid-40s north of Peoria to near 60 degrees south of I-70. By Sunday afternoon, precipitation chances increase to 30 percent, with a rain-snow mix possible into Sunday night. Temperatures will drop into the 20s, potentially creating slick spots before the Monday morning commute.
Residents should charge devices, use caution with farm equipment, and monitor local updates as conditions shift sharply from springlike warmth to near-freezing temperatures. Additional advisories may be issued through early next week as rain and snow chances continue into Tuesday.
