Breezy and cool Wednesday; rain chances pick up Thursday into Friday, mainly south of I‑40.

Breezy east‑northeast trades will keep scattered windward showers in place and push small craft advisories for nearby waters. Gusts could reach near 30 mph; secure loose outdoor items.

SRP says the Valley's taps are secure even though reservoirs sit near half‑full. The utility points to wells, monitoring and reservoir management to bridge shortfalls.

MDA confirmed emerald ash borer in trees near Burtrum and imposed a Todd County quarantine. A May 14 virtual meeting will explain next steps for residents and tree-care pros.

Light rain this morning with gusty NW winds and a minor flood risk in low-lying spots south of I-70.

Cloudy, muggy Wednesday with a 30% chance of afternoon storms and a strong cold front late Friday that brings heavy rain, gusts and a cooler weekend.

NWS survey crews confirmed an EF1 tornado near Mascoutah after Monday's storms; crews found snapped poles and damage near MidAmerica Airport.

Light rain and a few thunderstorms this morning in Columbus, gusty northwest winds will pick up later and a cooler, drier weekend follows.

State hearings in Springfield exposed monitoring gaps and pushed data‑center water use into the spotlight as drought forces local emergencies and lake closures.

Patchy morning fog clears to sunny afternoons with highs near 77F today and about 80F by Friday. Boaters should heed a Small Craft Advisory for coastal waters.

Sunny today with a high near 83°F. Warmth builds into the upper 80s–low 90s by Sunday; local officials urge heat precautions.

A coalition of conservation groups sued to block a BLM‑approved lithium exploration plan in the McDermitt Caldera, saying drilling, roads and groundwater pumping threaten sage‑grouse and springs.

Cloudy with scattered light showers and a high near 57°F. Patchy frost possible each morning through Sunday — gardeners should protect tender plants.