Turning cooler with rain on the way tonight

Windy Wednesday:

Yesterday was an VERY windy day across northern Illinois. Strong southerly to southwesterly winds frequently gusted between 30-40 mph, helping much warmer air spill in. Thanks to that wind, temperatures surged well above-average compared to early-April standards, climbing into the low 70s.  

    

Cooling down:

Today and tomorrow won't nearly be as windy, but we will see a noticeable change in our weather pattern as a cold front surges southward. Even with that front, highs today remain slightly above-average in the low 60s. By Friday, cooler air settles in thanks to a north to northwest wind, bringing afternoon highs closer to normal leaving most in the upper 50s.  

Rain Chances Tonight:

Rain chances slide back in this evening, starting off light but becoming more organized and widespread as the we get into the overnight hours. Along with steady rain, a few embedded storms will be possible, though severe weather is not expected. 

  

Most areas should pick up a quarter to three-quarters of an inch, with isolated totals up to 1". The good news, coverage should wind down just before the start of the morning commute, setting the stage for a damp but improving start to the day.