If you have plans to travel along I-57 in Illinois this weekend, be prepared for some serious weather swings. A powerful storm system is moving in, bringing everything from severe thunderstorms and damaging winds to a rain-snow mix by Sunday.
Saturday will be a stormy mess with the threat of tornadoes, large hail, and powerful winds, followed by a sharp temperature drop on Sunday, turning rain into slushy, icy conditions in some areas.
If you haven’t checked the forecast yet, now’s the time to get ready.
Saturday: Storms Bring High Winds, Hail, and Possible Tornadoes
The worst of the storms will hit Saturday afternoon into the evening, with the I-57 corridor—from Chicago down to Marion—squarely in the danger zone.
What’s Coming?
Winds up to 70 mph – Strong enough to bring down trees and power lines. Power outages are likely, so make sure your phone and flashlights are charged.
Large Hail (Maybe as Big as Tennis Balls!) – If you park outside, find some cover for your car. Hail this size can crack windshields and damage roofs.
Tornado Risk – Parts of Illinois are under a “high risk” for tornadoes, meaning that strong, long-lasting twisters are possible. If a warning is issued, don’t waste time—get to a safe place.
Flash Flooding – If heavy rain moves in fast, some roads could flood quickly. Never drive through standing water—it’s impossible to know how deep it is.
Sunday: From Thunderstorms to a Rain-Snow Mess
Once the storms move out, cold air will rush in, bringing a mix of rain and snow across much of central and northern Illinois.
- When? Early Sunday morning through the afternoon.
- Where? Most of central and northern Illinois, especially north of I-70.
- Road Conditions? Wet roads could turn slick, especially on bridges and overpasses.
It’s not a major snowstorm, but the combination of cold air, wet roads, and leftover rain could create some icy patches.
How to Get Ready for the Weekend Weather
✔ Turn on Weather Alerts – If storms hit overnight, you need a way to wake up. Make sure your phone’s emergency alerts are on, and keep a weather radio nearby.
✔ Secure Anything That Could Blow Away – Bring in patio furniture, trash cans, and anything else that could become a flying hazard in strong winds.
✔ Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phone, flashlights, and extra batteries now in case the wind knocks out power.
✔ Know Where to Go if a Tornado Warning is Issued – The safest place is a basement or small, windowless room on the lowest floor. If you live in a mobile home, have a backup shelter plan.
✔ Drive Carefully—Or Stay Off the Roads If Possible – Watch for flooded streets on Saturday and icy spots on Sunday. If roads look dangerous, stay put until conditions improve.
A Weekend of Weather Whiplash
Saturday: Strong storms, damaging winds, hail, and possible tornadoes.
Sunday: A sharp cooldown, with a rain-snow mix creating slick roads.
Get ready now—charge devices, secure outdoor items, and have a safety plan.
