MT. VERNON — High winds Wednesday and especially Thursday could cause travel headaches and even damage in some spots. The National Weather Service is currently forecasting sustained south winds between 25 and 30 miles per hour with wind gusts on Thursday possibly reaching 55 miles per hour.

Meteorologist Rachel Trevino with the National Weather Service says the duration of the event and the wet ground we have could lead to damage across southern Illinois.

On a positive note, temperatures on Thursday could get into the 70’s across southern Illinois, giving the area its first true taste of spring.