Springfield, IL – After several days of unseasonably mild weather, Central Illinois is preparing for a major temperature drop and the arrival of rain and brisk winds heading into the weekend. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Lincoln, a pair of cold fronts will move across the region through Friday, ending the fall warm-up and ushering in a sharp chill by Sunday morning.
The Weather Change: From Breezy Warmth to Rain and Cold Air
The NWS reports that southwest winds up to 25 mph will continue to gust across much of Central Illinois on Wednesday and Thursday, keeping highs in the low to mid-60s. This brief stretch of mild and windy conditions will give way to a dramatic pattern shift as cooler air pushes in from the northwest.
Meteorologists say the first cold front will arrive late Thursday, followed by a stronger secondary front on Friday morning, bringing widespread showers and a quick temperature drop across the region.
“Rain will become likely Thursday night into Friday morning, with scattered showers tapering off by midday,” said the National Weather Service. “Behind the front, cooler and drier air will settle in just in time for the weekend.”
Forecast Details: Rainfall, Winds, and Falling Temperatures
Rain chances will increase across the state late Thursday evening, with scattered showers continuing into early Friday. Motorists are advised to watch for slick roadways during the Friday morning commute as light to moderate rain moves through the area.
By Friday afternoon, skies will gradually begin to clear, but temperatures will start their descent — falling from the mid-60s into the 40s by evening.
The cooldown will intensify over the weekend, as morning lows dip into the upper 20s and 30s. Residents across Springfield, Decatur, and Bloomington are expected to feel the chill by early Sunday.
“Saturday will feature clearing skies and brisk northwest winds, with highs near the mid-50s,” forecasters said. “By Sunday, temperatures will drop even further, giving the region a true November feel.”
Weekend Outlook: Sunshine Returns, But Cold Air Stays
Although skies will turn mostly sunny on Sunday, the air will feel significantly colder. The combination of northwest winds and lingering post-frontal air will keep afternoon highs in the 40s to low 50s, with overnight lows near freezing.
Outdoor enthusiasts should prepare for wind chills in the 30s during the morning hours. Homeowners are also advised to secure outdoor decorations ahead of gusty winds expected late Thursday into Friday.
By Monday, temperatures are forecast to remain below average, with some northern counties struggling to reach the upper 30s during the day.
What to Expect Next Week
Cooler air will linger into early next week, maintaining highs in the 40s and lows in the upper 20s to low 30s across Central Illinois. Although the region will stay mostly dry through Tuesday, forecasters are monitoring the potential for another storm system midweek that could bring a mix of light rain and early-season frost.
The quick transition from warmth to cold serves as a reminder that winter weather patterns are beginning to take hold across the Midwest. Residents should check heating systems, bundle up for evening outings, and remain cautious of icy spots during early morning hours.
Conclusion
After several mild and breezy days, Central Illinois will experience a sharp cooldown as back-to-back cold fronts sweep through the state. Expect rain by Thursday night, gusty winds, and freezing lows by the weekend — signaling the true arrival of November weather.
What are your thoughts on this fall weather change? Share your experiences and forecasts in the comments below.
