Springfield, Illinois — Cold conditions will persist across central Illinois through the weekend, with below-normal temperatures and occasional light snow chances, according to the National Weather Service. While no major winter storm is expected, the combination of cold air and periodic snow may impact travel and outdoor plans.
Saturday afternoon highs are forecast to range between 18 and 25 degrees, with mostly cloudy skies. As temperatures fall tonight, wind chills are expected to drop to between 0°F and -6°F, especially in open and rural areas. These conditions will be most noticeable along major corridors such as Interstate 55, Interstate 72, Interstate 74, and Interstate 57.
On Sunday, slightly milder air will move in, with daytime highs climbing into the low to mid-20s. A 40 percent chance of light snow is expected mainly north of Interstate 70, though forecasters emphasize that only minor accumulations are anticipated. Snowfall amounts, if they occur, are expected to remain light and primarily affect untreated roads and bridges.
Sunday night temperatures will drop again into the mid-teens to near 20 degrees, with another round of light snow possible north of I-70. Conditions improve somewhat on Monday, as highs rebound into the upper 20s to mid-30s under partly cloudy skies.
Another weak weather system is expected to arrive Tuesday afternoon into Tuesday evening, bringing another chance for light snow, particularly across eastern portions of central Illinois. Once again, only minor accumulations are expected, but brief slick spots may develop during the evening commute.
Residents are advised to dress in layers, limit time outdoors during overnight and early morning hours, and monitor road conditions, especially during periods of light snow. Commuters and students should allow extra travel time during colder mornings.
Temperatures are expected to trend closer to seasonal averages later next week, offering gradual relief from the extended cold spell.
