Pacific air to bring warmer temps this weekend

Starting below, but ending above.  Temperatures will continue to rise above average into the start of the weekend where highs Saturday will reach the upper 30's in northern Illinois, but in the 40's just a little further downstate!

Mild air will flow from the Pacific Ocean as jet stream winds shift more from the northwest to the west.  This shuts off the cold air flow from the Arctic as the polar jet retreats back north.  The warmer pattern doesn't stick around, however, as it looks like we'll be back with the cold as early as next week.  But for now, just enjoy the rising temperatures.