Illinois begins the first workday of 2026 under a pale winter sky, where breath hangs in the air and pavement feels stiff underfoot. Cold conditions settle across central Illinois this morning, setting the tone for a week of temperature swings.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures around Lincoln and Champaign start the day near 21 degrees, with wind chills in the teens. Skies turn partly sunny, but cold air remains locked in place through the day. Highs only reach the lower 30s, keeping a winter grip on roads and sidewalks.
Dry conditions help limit widespread travel issues today, though drivers should watch for slick patches on shaded roads and bridges. Overnight lows drop back into the lower 20s, allowing any daytime melting to refreeze quickly. That freeze pattern can create isolated black ice by early Saturday.
Saturday brings slightly milder air, with highs climbing into the mid-30s under mostly sunny skies. To be fair, it will still feel brisk, especially in the morning. Saturday night cools into the upper teens, tightening winter’s hold again.
By Sunday, clouds increase and highs hover near 35. Winds stay light, but the repeated freeze-thaw cycle continues. Residents should plan extra time for early-morning travel and keep winter gear handy.
A bigger shift arrives Monday. Sunshine and southwest winds push temperatures toward the upper 40s, with gusts over 20 mph at times. Snowpack remains limited, but melting during the day followed by cooler nights could again create slick spots.
By Tuesday, highs reach the low 50s, hinting at a quieter stretch before another system approaches later next week. Winter is far from done, after all.
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign–Lincoln, Illinois
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 31
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 35
- Sunday: Increasing clouds, high near 35
- Monday: Mostly sunny, windy, high near 48
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 54
