Will the total solar eclipse impact the weather across northern Illinois?

Even though totality lasts a few minutes, you may notice some small changes in the weather. 

Before my move to Rockford, I lived in Kansas City, Missouri at the time the last total solar eclipse took place in August 2017. 

Prior to totality, cloud cover rolled in, restricting our view of the true solar spectacle. However, as totality was occurring, we did notice a drop in temperatures and wind. Any furry critters fluttering around my apartment complex took the darkened skies as a sign that nightfall was fast approaching, so our surroundings turned quiet rather quick.

Even though Rockford is expected to experience roughly 90% coverage of the sun by the moon, we will likely still see a subtle drop in temperatures if the right conditions are present. 

The partial eclipse will begin at 12:50 PM CDT, with max eclipse happening at 2:05PM CDT.

Any wind that is present will lighten up. As we know, wind is driven by a change in temperature which is driven by a change in pressure. The lack of sunshine allows surface temperatures to cool, keeping warm air from rising. That lack of rising motion likely leads to a drop in wind speed and a change in wind direction. To witness the full extent of the April 8th, 2024 total eclipse, you would have to take a trip to southern Illinois or central Indiana. Again, viewing will all depend on cloud cover!