It’s expected to be so warm in northern Illinois Wednesday afternoon that holiday decorations could look a little out of place amid all the sunshine. But conditions after dark are expected to grow so windy there’s a real possibility those same decorations will take flight and truly end up out of place — blocks away.

       The National Weather Service had already upgraded a high wind watch to a high wind advisory and meteorologists warned of wind gusts in excess of 60 mph whipping across most of the state and into northwest Indiana after 6 p.m. Wednesday. In fact, nearly half of all states were facing the potential for wind damage, according to the weather service. That could include downed tree limbs and power outages on par with what would be expected during a severe storm, forecasters said.

       Residents, particularly those living north of Interstate Highway 80, are encouraged to bring any outdoor furniture indoors, along with any free-standing decorations. Wind speeds should pick up after 6 p.m. with peak sustained winds expected from roughly 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Thursday, according to meteorologists.

       The weather service said preparation is the key to safely riding out strong winds. Residents should identify an interior room, preferably free of any windows, in which to ride out wind advisories. If driving and unable to stop, forecasters said to grip the steering wheel tightly and slow down; it’s also important to stay clear of high-profile vehicles that could tip over. Outside, stay clear of trees and any objects that could fall from above, as well as flying objects such as those unsecured holiday decorations.

       Meteorologists said the strong winds will accompany a cold front that’s expected to move into the Chicago area Wednesday night. Thunder and a band of rain showers may also move in with the cold front but, forecasters said, “in reality, the damaging wind threat exists across all of northern Illinois with or without the band of showers.”

       Temperatures will cool considerably in the coming days behind the cold front. Although Wednesday’s high temperature in Chicago is expected to rival the warmest Dec. 15, with 64 degrees recorded 50 years ago in 1971, Thursday’s daytime temp should top out at 46 degrees, with a low of 29.

       For more forecast information, visit the Tribune’s weather page. Check back for updates.

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