Illinois wakes up locked in one of the coldest mornings of the season as arctic air presses firmly across the heart of the state. The cold feels harsh and immediate. Skin stings within seconds, engines strain to turn over, and drifting snow slides across open roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until noon CST today for much of central and east-central Illinois, including Champaign, Urbana, Bloomington, Normal, Decatur, and Danville. Wind chills as low as 30 degrees below zero are possible, creating a serious frostbite risk on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Early-morning temperatures near Champaign sit around -11°F, with wind chills near -29°F. Northwest winds continue to whip across open farmland, occasionally producing blowing snow and reduced visibility. While snowfall is ending, untreated roads, bridges, and rural highways may remain slick, especially along I-57, I-72, and I-74.
Drivers should allow extra travel time, keep emergency supplies in vehicles, and avoid extended outdoor exposure. Pets should stay indoors, and residents are urged to check on elderly neighbors during the coldest hours.
Conditions gradually improve this afternoon as winds ease, though it stays brutally cold. Highs struggle to reach 6°F. Tonight remains frigid, with lows near -5°F before temperatures begin a slow climb.
A notable pattern shift arrives early this week. Monday brings sunshine with highs near 25°F. By Tuesday, temperatures jump into the mid-30s, starting a December thaw. Melting snow during the day followed by colder nights could lead to flash freezing and black ice, especially during early-morning and late-night travel.
Midweek stays milder, with highs near 38°F, before rain chances return late Wednesday night into Thursday.
With Christmas travel approaching, winter hazards remain front-and-center. Bundle up today and stay alert as conditions shift quickly this week.
5-Day Outlook for Champaign–Urbana, IL:
• Today: Sunny, extreme cold, high near 6°F
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 25°F
• Tuesday: Sunny, high near 36°F
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 38°F
• Thursday: Rain likely, high near 51°F
