Central Illinois is heading into one of those “what just happened?” weather weekends — the kind where you start out in shorts and end up reaching for your winter coat. From thunderstorms to tumbling temps and maybe even a few snowflakes, Mother Nature is throwing everything at us in the next 72 hours.
Let’s break it down.
FRIDAY: STORMS MOVE IN WITH A VENGEANCE
Let’s not sugarcoat it — Friday evening looks rough.
The day will kick off feeling warm and humid, highs in the mid-70s, but by late afternoon, the sky’s going to start changing — fast. We’re talking severe thunderstorms rolling through, bringing with them strong winds, hail, and possibly even a few tornadoes.
If you’re planning to be out Friday night, please stay alert.
Here’s what we’re watching for:
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Winds over 60 mph — enough to down trees and knock out power
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Hail the size of golf balls
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A real tornado risk, especially west of Springfield and toward Peoria
This is the kind of evening where you want your weather alerts ON and your storm plan ready. Don’t wait to be surprised by a siren — know where you’d go if you needed to take cover.
SATURDAY: WET, WINDY, AND FEELING A LOT MORE LIKE MARCH
Saturday flips the script. Gone are the warm temps — we’re waking up to rain, breezy conditions, and a much chillier feel. Highs won’t get much past the low 60s, and by the evening, we’re dipping into the upper 40s.
It’s going to be a soggy, gray day. Perfect for staying inside, watching movies, maybe baking something warm. Roads could get slick, especially in rural areas, so drive cautiously if you have to head out.
SUNDAY: SURPRISE! SNOW SHOWERS IN SPRING
No, your calendar isn’t broken — it really is April. But Central Illinois might get a taste of winter before the weekend’s over.
Cold air sticks around Sunday, with highs in the low 50s. And as the day winds down, we could see rain mixing with light snow in some parts of the region.
We’re not talking a snowstorm — more of a “wait, is that really snow?” moment. Still, with temps dropping close to freezing Sunday night, don’t rule out a slick patch or two on the roads.
WHAT TO DO RIGHT NOW:
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Charge your stuff — phones, flashlights, backup batteries. Power outages are possible.
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Pay attention to alerts, especially Friday afternoon and evening.
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Stay flexible — outdoor plans might need a rain check.
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Check on neighbors, especially elderly folks who might need help with last-minute prep.
This weekend’s weather is the kind that keeps us on our toes — dramatic, unpredictable, and just a little bit absurd. We go from spring to storm to something that feels like winter in less than 48 hours.
