Illinois, get ready for a wild weather ride this week! Temperatures are soaring into the 70s, making it feel like we’ve skipped straight to late spring. But don’t get too comfortable—because by Friday night, storms will roll in, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and a major cooldown.
Here’s what you need to know so you’re not caught off guard.
Friday, March 15 – A Perfect Spring Day (For Now)
Friday is the day to get outside and enjoy the warmth because after this, things go downhill fast.
- Chicago: High of 69°F (21°C) with breezy winds and some clouds.
- Springfield: A warm 75°F (24°C), though winds will pick up later in the day.
- Peoria: Possible record-breaking warmth at 75°F (24°C), but those gusty winds will be a sign of change.
What this means for you:
✔ If you’ve been itching to get outside, Friday is your chance!
✔ It’ll be breezy, but overall a great day.
But don’t get too attached—Friday night is when the weather takes a turn.
Friday Night – Storms Move In, Winds Crank Up
Once the sun sets, a strong cold front moves through, bringing:
- Heavy rain and thunderstorms across parts of the state.
- Winds gusting up to 40 mph, making it feel much colder.
- Possibly some hail or strong storms—not a huge severe threat, but something to watch.
What You Should Do:
✔ Have an umbrella and rain jacket ready if you’ll be out.
✔ Be cautious driving at night—heavy rain could reduce visibility.
✔ Secure any loose outdoor furniture before the wind picks up.
Saturday, March 16 – Cooler, Windy, and Gloomy
By Saturday morning, the storms will move out, but they’ll leave behind cooler air and gusty winds.
- Chicago: A high of 62°F (17°C), but with wind gusts making it feel colder.
- Springfield: Cooler at 64°F (18°C), with a mix of clouds and sun.
- Peoria: A high near 60°F (15°C), but winds could still gust up to 30 mph.
The Takeaway? The warm spell is over, and it’s time to grab a jacket again.
Sunday, March 17 – Back to Reality (and Maybe a Little Snow?)
By Sunday, you’ll definitely feel the difference—it’ll be back to winter vibes.
- Chicago: Just 43°F (6°C), and windy enough to make it feel even colder.
- Springfield: A chilly 48°F (9°C), with a few breaks of sun.
- Peoria: 47°F (8°C), but feeling more like the upper 30s with the wind.
The Takeaway? Winter coats are back in play!
The Bottom Line: What’s Coming?
Friday: Warm and breezy, but storms arrive late at night.
Saturday: Much cooler, windy, and cloudy—jacket weather returns!
Sunday: Cold, windy, and feeling like winter again.
Don’t Get Fooled by the Warmth!
Be ready for:
✔ Storms Friday night—have a backup plan for evening events.
✔ Windy, cooler weather Saturday—don’t forget a jacket.
✔ A full-on temperature crash Sunday—it’ll feel like winter again!
Soak up the warmth while you can, Illinois! A big change is coming, and you’ll be pulling those winter coats back out by the weekend. Stay safe and stay weather-aware!
