Tranquil weather continues, rain moves in Thursday night

This week's active start left us near-average when it comes to the first 5 days of March. 

But the rainfall we've seen this year isn't comparable to what was observed at this point last year. If you recall, Rockford was sitting at 6" of rain.

For now, the forecast remains tranquil. Skies remain partly cloudy throughout the day, with northeasterly winds keeping highs in the low 50s.

Moisture streaming out ahead of our next storm system will allow cloud cover to increase as Thursday progresses. Despite that, high temperatures are still expected to reach the mid 50s.

Rain moves in late Thursday night, remaining likely throughout the day Friday. So, be sure to place the rain gear somewhere where it will be easily in sight as you prepare to leave Friday morning. 

Forecast models place the the surface low and warm front to our south, meaning winds will primarily be out of the north and northeast. These gusty winds will allow colder air to spill into the Stateline, resulting in the possibility for a few wet flakes to mix in late Friday night into early Saturday!

Precipitation aims to taper off well before daybreak Saturday, leaving most with .5"-1.0". As Friday's rain-maker pulls away, winds and cloud cover will decrease by the afternoon. Expect temperatures to only peak in the mid 40s. 

With the time change this weekend comes warmer times as highs climb back into the upper 40s Sunday, then into the low 60s by Tuesday. Remember, we turn our clocks forward an hour at 2AM Sunday!