Weather

Blog Posts

Tornado touching down over green field and buildings
Tornado trends
In today’s world, it appears that everyone has seen or experienced a tornado up close and personal, at least from all the video that is available on...
Map of upper level winds on May 2, 2023 in Illinois
Has this spring in Illinois been windier than usual?
Earlier this week very strong winds blowing dust across a south central Illinois highway suddenly reduced visibility to just a few feet and resulted...
Thunderstorm clouds with lightning strike over rural area with corn fields.
What does the startling, sharp cracking sound of thunder mean?
While I was home from college one summer, an early morning thunderstorm passed over our farmhouse. I was in my room, trying to sleep through the...
Stormy clouds over country roads
What is atmospheric stability?
As I reflect, it was Severe Weather Preparedness Week— March 6-10, 2023. We have already had severe weather this year, but it will become more...
The weight of winter: snow and ice on trees image of ice on dormant tree branches
The weight of winter: Snow and ice on trees
I write this article as I look out at a snow-covered landscape and give thanks for the warmth of my office. It is during these days that I’m reminded...
fog covering over grassy area and small lake
No two fogs are the same
We are bound to have fog from time to time. I still remember when I was in my late teens and insisted on going to see some friends when I could...
Raindrops hitting top of clear umbrella
Rolling on an atmospheric river and the Pineapple Express
California has recently been slammed with extreme rainfall and snow in the high elevations, along with high winds. Media have attributed these events...
man shoveling snow with poor form
Prevent post-shoveling aches and pains
It’s officially winter which means snowfall is imminent! There are an estimated 11,500 snow shovel-related injuries and medical emergencies a year....

News Releases

weather map of Illinois showing normal vs observed precipitation levels
Illinois at increased risk of drought conditions
Parts of northeast, western, and central Illinois have been much drier than normal in the past 4 to 6 weeks, causing dry soils and lower streamflow. Perennials, gardens, and young trees in these areas have begun to show some response to the dryness, requiring more frequent watering than typical...
Climate Series
Ready your agricultural operation for the changing climate
URBANA, Ill. – Weather trends are changing. Are you ready for how it will affect your agricultural operation or natural resources area? The Bi-State Climate monthly webinar series brings together Illinois and Indiana Extension experts to highlight important climate-related topics for...
bee on flower
Take small steps to improve, support the environment this winter
URBANA, Ill. – Widespread environmental issues like changing weather patterns and habitat loss can feel overwhelming, but small everyday choices make a difference. Explore sustainable maple syrup harvesting, tornado trends in the U.S., and what research says about how to support pollinators in...

Videos

Weather: Derecho

A rare but destructive wind can move over much of the United States during certain times. Watch this video to find out what a Derecho is.

Weather: Temperature Inversions

Temperature near Earth’s surface usually decreases the higher you go from the surface, but not always. Learn why there are times when temperature gets warmer at higher elevations.

Weather: Rain Shadow

The rain shadow effect is the reason why areas on opposite sides of a mountain can have drastically different climates.

Weather: Visible Spectrum of Light

Humans see just a small fraction of all the energy the sun produces. Watch this video to learn about how energy travels in waves and how the size of those waves are visible and invisible, and what actually is received on Earth.

Staff