Scott Air Force Base dominates this southwestern Illinois city of 32,000, where military personnel and their families comprise a significant portion of residents. The base's presence creates stable employment but also transient population as service members rotate assignments. St. Louis lies just 15 miles west, influencing regional economy and culture. Midwest continental climate brings humid summers in the upper 80s and cold winters with moderate snowfall. The area's flat prairie terrain offers few natural features beyond scattered creeks. Spring thunderstorms can turn severe, while fall provides pleasant temperatures for outdoor activity.
