Summer-like warmth Sunday afternoon

 

If you enjoyed Saturday's weather, you're sure to love what we have coming up Sunday afternoon. A southwest breeze through much of the overnight held temperatures in the low to mid 60s, with readings still at the 7am hour in the low 60s!

A cold front just to the northwest of us Sunday morning will sweep through around Noon, shifting winds to the west and northwest. There were a few clouds around earlier in the morning but with drier air and high pressure moving in, we should continue to see plenty of sunshine for the afternoon. This will bring temperatures into the upper 70s and low 80s, with Rockford's high forecast to reach 81 degrees. If you do plan on spending any time outdoors, don't forget the sunscreen! The UV index will be moderate to high this afternoon.

On average, our first 80-degree day typically comes towards the end of April. If we reach 81 degrees today, it'll be our first 80-degree day of the year. The earliest 80-degree day occurred back on March 15th, 2012. Skies will remain mostly clear tonight with temperatures falling back into the mid-40s. Another mostly sunny day is expected Monday with temperatures warming back into the mid-70s. The warmth will come to an end, however, later in the week with a series of cold fronts moving through. This will bring temperatures back below average by the end of the week and next weekend.