Mild today, Colder Weather Returns

Super Bowl Sunday featured both plenty of well deserved sunshine and spring-like warmth across the Stateline. In fact, the Rockford Airport recorded a 40 degree day for the first time since January 10th. Monday continues that early-spring like feel as highs climb into the lower 40s this afternoon. The Stateline finds itself between a split in the jet stream. The northern branch seems to remain relaxed and less active in the upcoming days. However, the southern branch is going to be very active and amplified bringing in a couple of low pressure systems to portions of the south. But for us here in the Stateline, conditions will be mainly quiet to kick off the work week. Skies started off mostly sunny, but clouds are likely to increase through the day. By sunset, patchy drizzle is possible as moisture collects underneath the additional cloud cover. 

A developing area of low pressure on the lee side of the Rockies early this morning will be the source that brings moisture into the Midwest from the Gulf of Mexico. An area of high pressure looks to settle to the northwest of the Stateline which will set up as a "blocking" high pressure. This essentially keeps the incoming low from potentially tracking farther to the north, which would give us a better chance for light snow. But because of the position of this high pressure system, this leaves the highest chance for precipitation restricted across central and southern Illinois. However, by Monday evening, the chance for a spotty wintry mix is possible. Temperatures will aim to be in the mid 20s by around sunrise, which could result in slick spots for Tuesday morning's commute. I would be sure to give yourself extra time getting to your destination tomorrow morning.

I would say if you didn't get a chance to enjoy the sunshine and mild weather yesterday, do your best to get outside today. After today, our good friend winter takes control of our high temperatures for the next few days. Following a cold frontal passage, high temperatures will drop from the low 40s today, back down to seasonable tomorrow, then slightly below average by Midweek. Midweek looks to be pretty quiet, however a second disturbance is set to push into the Midwest by late in the day. This time around, there will be no "blocking" area of high pressure in place. This brings the threat for heavier snow to the region overnight Wednesday into early Thursday.