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Stay informed on the latest severe weather updates and catch live streaming coverage through our Severe Weather Center.
Today, a robust cold front is expected to sweep through the region. Unlike many of its predecessors, this front is not anticipated to trigger extensive storm activity. However, there remains a possibility of storm development near the I-70 corridor, with these storms potentially intensifying as they move south and east. While the model provided may be somewhat optimistic about storm formation locally, it stands out as one of the few predicting significant activity in our vicinity.
This morning, the Storm Prediction Center slightly expanded the risk area for storms that could ignite along our cold front later in the day. Although the overall forecast remains largely unchanged, residents should stay vigilant for storms developing along the front this evening, particularly near I-70. These storms may bring quarter-sized hail or larger and some strong wind gusts. Fortunately, the tornado threat appears minimal, and it’s uncertain if any storms will materialize in the area. Nonetheless, preparedness is always advisable!
Beyond today’s weather event, don’t expect any significant rainfall over the next week, as we transition into a more uneventful weather pattern to close out March.
As the front progresses later today, expect a dramatic temperature contrast across Central Illinois. Areas near I-70 could experience temperatures in the mid-80s, while those further north might endure wind chills plunging into the mid-30s!
Although we could still use the rain, at least it will be pleasant out during this stretch of dry weather. Temperatures will come down a bit Sunday Night into Monday as that cold front moves through, but it should not take long for them to rebound later in the coming week.
With severe weather possible any time of the year, consider using WCIA WeatherCall as a way to get calls from us at WCIA in the middle of the night if a weather warning is issued for your location. When you’re asleep, it’s a great way to stay safe. Nothing like a phone call to wake you up and warn you and your family when minutes matter.
Don’t forget to download the WCIA 3 Weather App to stay up-to-date with the latest forecast anytime, anywhere.
Here is your 7 day forecast updated several times a day. You also can see the 7 day forecast and more on the WCIA 3 Weather App and on the WCIA 3 Weather Map Room.
See the latest drought monitor showing drought conditions in Central Illinois below. The drought monitor is released every Thursday morning and includes rainfall amounts from the Tuesday to Tuesday 7 day window immediately before the drought monitor is released.
Here are the latest extended outlooks for the 8-14 day temperature and precipitation outlooks. These outlooks are issued daily and provide insight into the confidence in seeing temperatures and precipitation above or below normal beyond our 7 day forecast.
