Severe storms, strong winds to round out a very spring-like week

Sun-filled skies and warm winds will bring one more beautiful day before a potent and dynamic system shakes things up into the weekend. Afternoon highs will end up a smidge warmer compared to Wednesday in the mid to possibly upper 60s.

The daylight hours Friday remain dry, though expect winds to pick up by the afternoon.

 

For that, northern Illinois will be placed under a WIND ADVISORY as gusts could end up between 40-50 mph. In terms of temperatures, this robust and strong wind will help us soar into the 70s for the first time this year. Winds that strong will also result in difficult travel and a few power outages. Late in the afternoon, an intense low drifting into the plains will help spark up a round of thunderstorms across Iowa, and Missouri. A round in which will set it's eyes on the Stateline locales towards Friday evening. 

Over the past few days, the risk for strong to severe storms has been increasing. Overnight, the Storm Prediction Center expanded the level 3 of 5 enhanced risk to include the southwest half of our viewing area. The rest, including Rockford, remains under a level 2 of 5 slight risk for severe weather.

 

 

The biggest question mark, intensity. Instability this far north isn't going to be as high, which will allow these storms to gradually weaken on approach. The amount of moisture we're also able to maintain is also in question because the stronger winds aloft could help mix down some drier air, lowering our surface dew points. If that occurs, we may lose some of the moisture needed for storms to maintain their strength once they cross into northern Illinois. 

If they do happen to maintain their strength, damaging winds and an isolated tornado or two will be the biggest severe concerns. 

Like we discussed last week during severe weather preparedness week, take this time to plan and practice your severe plan. Storm chances drop a little after midnight, leaving us with a very strong wind for Saturday. For now, the National Weather Service has placed Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Lee, DeKalb, and McHenry counties under a HIGH WIND WATCH. This will be in place from 8AM-3PM Saturday. Sustained winds will be upwards of 30-40 mph, with gusts as high as 60 mph possible. Similar to Friday, traveling will be rather difficult for some. Winds this strong could also cause a few power outages via tree limbs.