The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a Dense Fog Advisory for portions of southern Illinois, in effect until 9 AM this (Friday) morning. Visibility across the region has dropped to a quarter mile or less in some areas, creating hazardous conditions for drivers.
Motorists are urged to slow down, use headlights, and leave extra distance between vehicles while traveling through the fog. Beyond this morning’s fog, the region is bracing for an extended stretch of unusually warm weather and a series of dynamic weather systems over the coming days. Temperatures are expected to remain above average, with near-record highs in the upper 70s forecast for both today (Friday) and Monday.
In the past 72 hours, unofficially, 2.43 inches of rainfall has been recorded at the WFIW studios east of Fairfield and Saturday will bring a round of thunderstorms during the morning and afternoon, with heavy rainfall and the potential for severe storms. Damaging wind gusts are the primary concern with this weather system. After a brief cooldown on Sunday, another potent system is expected to arrive Monday through Wednesday.
This second round of showers and thunderstorms, forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday, carries an increased risk of strong to severe storms. With soils already saturated, heavy rainfall during this period could lead to localized flooding.
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as these weather systems develop. Residents are encouraged to stay alert for further advisories and to prepare for potentially hazardous weather in the days ahead.