SOUTHERN ILLINOIS — Winter will make a sudden and possibly crashing appearance this weekend, ushered in by high winds today.

Widespread 40 to possibly 60 mph wind gusts are expected today into this evening. The highest winds are expected to be across the southeast half of the region, particularly from late this morning through early this evening.

Strong gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Some trees may be uprooted or blown down. Scattered power outages are expected. High-profile vehicles may experience difficult travel conditions.

This will bring in a strong arctic cold front to the listening area on Saturday afternoon.

If temperatures do not rise above freezing Saturday it is expected to mark the first of 6 or more days where temperatures will not rise above freezing.

Lows Saturday through Tuesday night are forecast to fall into or near the single digits.

Such a long period below freezing only occurs about 3 to 4 times every 30 to 40 years in this region.

Below-zero wind chills are likely most of Monday and Tuesday. This extended cold snap will be dangerous to those without adequate shelter and will likely challenge plumbing and other cold-sensitive infrastructure.

Take necessary action to protect yourself, and your pets, and winterize property.

Accumulating snow remains possible Monday but forecast amounts continue to trend lower.