Gusty winds bring elevated fire risk to northern Illinois

Skies were filled with sunshine over the weekend, especially during the day on Sunday. 

A northwest breeze however kept temperatures chilly, landing in the mid to upper 40s. 

The work week starts with a bit of chill as we can expect 20s and 30s out the door. However, a rather warm and robust wind will allow highs to climb back to unseasonably warm levels.

By this afternoon, wind gusts will be landing in the 25 to 35 mph range. This combined with low relative humidity will allow fire danger to be elevated. While there isn't a fire weather watch or red flag warning in place, the best thing to do to avoid any issues is to limit or postpone any plans to burn.

On the flip side, today's wind will also play a role in our quick warm up as we can expect the thermometer to peak into the mid to upper 60s. The same is in the works for Tuesday, just add a few more clouds. 

Forecast models continue to keep temperatures in the 60s ahead of our next pattern change. This will be in the form of multiple cold fronts that will help cool temperatures down into the weekend

Highs fall into the 50s Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, then into the 40s by Sunday. Along with this pattern change comes our next chance for showers and storms. The first chance arrives late Tuesday night into Wednesday, with a higher shot at rainfall Thursday into Thursday night.