THE WEEKEND STARTS SLOW

After a couple of outstanding weather days, conditions are going downhill Friday. The change is the result of a somewhat disjointed disturbance that will cross the Midwest to start the weekend. Warm air advection has already spawned showers and a few thunderstorms overnight with the aid of a 25 kt low level jet. While some decent downpours have developed over central Iowa, moisture is limited further east. Thus, instability is marginal and precipitation is (or will be) undergoing a weakening trend as it approaches the region Friday morning. Whatever survives will be around in the morning before dissipating by early afternoon.

This 3k NAM simulated radar shows the trend, with much of central Iowa experiencing showers and storms at 6:00am. The rains are just getting into eastern Iowa.

By mid-afternoon, only spotty light showers are left thanks to the drier air further east and meager CAPE.

Temperatures with clouds and pockets of rain cooled air will be below normal, holding in the upper 70s to near 80. As Friday wears on, moisture does increase, allowing some increase in instability. Most models indicate water vapor once again reaching the 2.00 inch level. Add to that improved forcing ahead of a cold front, and at least scattered showers and storms are likely to form again Friday evening. Severe storms do not look to be much of a concern, with CAPE struggling to grow. In fact, SPC shows only a level 1 risk of any severe storms. Odds are a bit higher off to the west.

Where stronger updrafts or thunderstorms can flourish, the deep moisture may allow some locally heavy downpours. These do not look widespread, and most areas should get out of the set-up with moderate rainfall. Areas west of the Mississippi have the best chance of seeing the heaviest amounts. Here's what guidance is suggesting for rain totals.

The EURO

The GFS

The HRRR

The 3k NAM

Any lingering rains will sink out of my area early Saturday, as the overall flow remains zonal and progressive. Skies will become mostly sunny in the afternoon, with temperatures in the low to mid 80s.

Sunday and Monday, high pressure settles in from the north, allowing sensational weather. Highs both days will be pleasant with highs of 75 north to 80 south. Humidity levels will be very comfortable with mostly sunny skies. Late Monday night or Tuesday, rain chances increase once again.

In a nutshell, the weekend starts slow Friday but finishes strong with dry, pleasant weather Saturday and Sunday. I think we've earned it. Roll weather...TS

SEE WHAT YOU ARE MISSING. MY AIRBNB IS A GUEST FAVORITE!

AIRBNB has rated my renovated church in Galena A GUEST FAVORITE, A MOST LOVED home according to visitors. Check out some of our reviews and get in on the flexible deals we have available below.

Christa-Monument, Colorado

The Little White Church is amazing!!!! Pictures do not do it justice. I would absolutely recommend it to my friends and family. It is just so unique. Carolyn is an amazing host and super responsive. I would give our experience 6 out of 5 stars if I could.

Phillip-Queensland, Australia

Amazing and thoughtful renovation. Stayed in a piece of history. Great location and modern amenities. Would stay again!

Jill

The Little White Church is beautiful. The decorations are perfect, and it was redone with impeccable taste. Carolyn was a great host.

Brent

Such a gem. Relaxing in the countryside in a historic church that was beautifully decorated and recently renovated was exactly what we experienced. Everyone loved our stay, and we will be back!!!

Leigh

Beautiful and unique. We were all captivated by the adorable chapel turned AIRBNB

Jenny-Frisco, Texas

It was a magical place for our family to celebrate Christmas!

Kelly

What a gem! The Little White Church exceeded our expectations. It was the perfect spot to meet up with another couple to relax and explore nearby Galena. We enjoyed the beautiful great room with its fireplace and amazing views of the rolling countryside. (The photos simply can't do it justice). The charming church/home was quiet, well appointed and clean. And Carolyn was proactive with instructions and a terrific communicator. We will definitely be back!

John

Absolutely incredible! Loved the tranquility and the beautiful views. The decor was so inviting. AND the bell tower works!! Would 100% stay here again!

Tori-Cedar Falls

This place is so beautiful! Carolyn and Terry were so thoughtful and kind to let us have our wedding at the church. They even provided extra supplies in case we needed them. The private garden worked perfectly for our ceremony, and the backyard easily fit our reception needs. Not to mention, the balconies make perfect photo spots! My husband and I recommend the Little White Church and will be telling all our friends about it.

Mahesh-Buffalo Grove

Carolyn was a great host, very flexible! The place is super clean, spacious with a private backyard overlooking the fields and bluffs! We spent a lot of time on the deck. Great kitchen, clean bedrooms and baths. Highly recommend the place.

William

Great place. Great host. Will definitely book again and tell our friends.

Miriam

Carolyn and Terry's place is BEAUTIFUL! The Little White Church is a wonderful place, way more beautiful than the pictures. Everything is brand new and extremely clean. Staying at the church was a unique experience and I would love to come back soon. I strongly recommend the place if you are looking for a 5-star location!

Vanessa-Chicago

Carolyn was great! Absolutely beautiful place! I would not hesitate to go back. We spent Thanksgiving and the next night. Very well stocked and above and beyond with extras included. Thank you!

MAKE US AN OFFER...

What about pricing? Right now, we are able to offer you our best pricing ever. We have 3 nights for the price of 2 which, depending on the days, can save as much as $300-$400 dollars. If you book directly through us, you can also eliminate booking fees and taxes that the big chains charge. Cleaning fees are also drastically reduced. It all adds up to exceptional deals at a destination worth visiting. Let us assist in finding a time and price that works for you. Here's a link to some pictures. https://www.tswails.com/galena-airbnb

Carolyn and I will do all we can to make sure your stay is a memorable one. Please call or text Carolyn for more details and options and get a prime date while they are still available. Again, that's Carolyn at 563-676-3320. Or carolynswettstone@yahoo.com

Now that it's vacation season, there is no better place to visit than Galena and no better place to stay than my newly renovated AIRBNB, the Little White Church. We are located in the bluffs, just 5 miles from the 2nd largest tourism destination in Illinois. In fact, "Tourist Destination", rated Galena as the 2023 top place to visit in the entire Midwest.

Now is the best time to enjoy all there is to offer, and my 5-star AIRBNB is the perfect location to stay. Set in the rolling hills just outside of town, our completely renovated church is designed for you to unwind and relax.

Again, we are an AIRBNB Super host and can accommodate up to 8 guests. We've got cable, hi-speed WIFI, Sirius XM and a sparkling full kitchen. We are a home away from home and take great pride in cleanliness and comfort. All of our ratings have attained perfect 5-star status!

Hope to see you soon,

Terry and Carolyn

7 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT GALENA

1. It’s Steeped In History

2. It’s Home To One Of The Best Main Streets In America

3. The Restaurants Are Amazing

4. There’s A Lot To Do Outdoors

5. You Don’t Have To Travel To The Mountains To Go Skiing

6. It’s A Great Place To Spend The Fourth Of July

7. Did I Mention The Shopping?