DeKALB | Wednesday marks a return to normal temperatures after a string of several days with temperatures averaging 10 degrees above normal. NIU meteorologist Gilbert Sebenste said the reason for the summer-like temperatures was because of a jet stream coming from the Pacific Ocean bringing with it warm, moist air.

“The air rained itself out over the Rocky Mountains and spread eastward, warming it further,” Sebenste said.

Once the air reaches the Midwest it became very dry, he said. Dry air heats quickly during the day and cools off in the evening hours, which is causing an unusually large temperature spread between the late afternoon and evening hours.

“The temperature can drop 15-20 degrees in a matter of a half hour,” Sebenste said.

While the rest of the week will see normal temperatures, it doesn’t mean the weather won’t be nice, he said.

“We’re looking at a return to to mid-60s for the rest of the week and 70s for the weekend,” Sebenste said. “There is a small chance of a shower [today], but the rest of the week and weekend looks spectacular.”

To get a seven-day forecast visit the NIU Weather website