First round of spring severe weather possible

Don't worry, it's not for us!  But, areas to the south could experience their first bout of severe weather later today and tomorrow.

A fairly strong spring jet stream pattern has taken shape over the southern Rockies this morning.  This will allow low pressure to develop in Oklahoma and pull northeast reaching northern Illinois tonight.

Winds are currently from the east, but will increase from the southeast today ahead of a warm front.  That front will pull a warm, moist air mass northward later today.  Rain will overspread from south to north through the overnight, and with that could come a few rumbles of thunder.  Further south in central & southern Illinois, Missouri and parts of Arkansas and Oklahoma are in for possible severe weather with hail, gusty winds and isolated tornadoes. 

Rainfall amounts could add up, as the biggest rainfall is expected since the end of last year.  Totals between a quarter inch to half inch will be likely by Wednesday morning.  Temperatures today and tonight will be key in determining just what type of precipitation will fall.  Most of northern Illinois should experience rain, however, just over the border and further north in Wisconsin may experience more of a wintry mix through Wednesday morning.