Springfield, Illinois – Bitter cold tonight across central Illinois will give way to a rapid warming trend beginning Sunday, bringing springlike temperatures by early next week.
According to the National Weather Service Central Illinois, overnight conditions tonight will remain cold, with low temperatures between 8 and 18 degrees and wind chills dropping to near or below zero, especially north and east of Interstate 72. The coldest wind chills are expected near Interstate 55, Interstate 57, and Interstate 74, where northwest winds will persist into early Saturday.
Saturday will remain cold, though daytime highs are forecast to reach 24 to 35 degrees, with partial sunshine across much of the region. Saturday night lows are expected to fall into the mid-teens to mid-20s, maintaining icy conditions on untreated roads and elevated surfaces.
A noticeable warming trend begins Sunday as southerly winds return. High temperatures are forecast to reach 32 to 47 degrees, with continued improvement into Monday. By Monday afternoon, highs in the low to mid-50s are expected west of Interstate 57, including areas along I-55 and I-72.
The warmup peaks Tuesday, when parts of central Illinois could see high temperatures nearing 60 degrees, a sharp contrast from the subzero wind chills expected tonight. Snowmelt and damp road conditions may develop as temperatures rise.
While no significant precipitation is forecast, commuters should remain cautious tonight and early Saturday due to lingering ice and cold pavement temperatures. Students, early-morning workers, and drivers along major corridors should dress for extreme cold before the warming trend fully takes hold.
The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor updated forecasts at weather.gov as temperature trends are refined.
