Lincoln, IL – Unseasonably warm and dry weather is set to continue across central and southeast Illinois through this Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Lincoln. Afternoon highs are forecasted to reach close to or above 90 degrees, accompanied by mostly sunny skies, marking a notable warm spell for the area.
This period of late-summer heat stands out, especially as it follows an early September that was cooler than usual. However, this warm trend is expected to break with the arrival of scattered showers and thunderstorms on Friday, September 19, mainly impacting areas west of Interstate 57.
A Warm Late Summer Stretch Across Illinois
The upcoming days will deliver a strikingly warm air mass across the region. Residents can expect:
- Temperatures near or above 90°F throughout central and southeast Illinois through Thursday.
- Mostly sunny skies, contributing to the dry and warm conditions.
- A weather pattern more reminiscent of mid-summer than seasonal early fall.
National Weather Service meteorologists note that this warmth is unseasonable for this time of year but is expected to be short-lived.
Storms and Cooler Weather Moving in Friday
According to forecasters, the current warmth will give way by Friday. Key points include:
- Scattered showers and thunderstorms expected to develop, mainly west of Interstate 57.
- Rain chances ranging from 20 to 30 percent continuing through the weekend.
- Highs on Friday will slightly fall to the low 80s to near 90 degrees.
- Temperatures on Saturday and Sunday will be cooler, holding steady in the mid-80s.
- Overnight lows will remain mild, approximately in the low to mid-60s.
The Weather Service emphasizes that while rain and storms are possible Friday and Saturday nights, these are expected to be scattered and not widespread. Nonetheless, residents with outdoor plans or travel schedules should stay updated with forecasts.
“Residents planning outdoor events or travel should keep an eye on forecasts, especially as storm chances increase into the weekend,” advises the National Weather Service in Lincoln.
Read Also: Tulsa, OK Storm Update: Damaging Winds and Heavy Downpours Expected Through Midweek
Implications for Residents and Outdoor Activities
The approaching weather changes have practical impacts for residents across Illinois. It is advisable to:
- Monitor local weather updates, particularly on Friday and the weekend, for any changes in storm activity.
- Prepare for cooler weather starting Friday evening and through the weekend.
- Consider contingency plans for outdoor events to accommodate possible scattered thunderstorms.
For continued updates, readers can visit the original report at Country Herald.
This unseasonably warm stretch capped by a weekend of storm chances, highlights the dynamic weather patterns residents can expect this September in Illinois.
What Do You Think About This Weather Pattern?
Have you felt the late-summer heatwave in Illinois this week? Are you preparing for the scattered storms expected Friday? Share your experiences and plans in the comments below!