A sharp northwest wind whips across the University of Illinois campus this morning, rattling bare tree branches and pushing wind chills toward zero. Temperatures sit near 20 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. It feels colder than the thermometer suggests.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, highs reach only 28 degrees today. Northwest winds between 17 and 22 mph, with gusts up to 32 mph, will keep wind chills between 4 and 14 degrees. A few flurries may drift through early, but no major accumulation is expected.
Drivers along I-74 and I-57 should watch for slick spots where melting refroze overnight. With lows dipping near 15 degrees tonight, any damp pavement can turn icy again. Flash freezing becomes a concern after sunset, especially on bridges and untreated side streets.
Monday brings sunshine and a high near 31. Winds ease slightly, but cold air lingers into Monday night with lows around 18. Then a noticeable shift arrives Tuesday. Highs jump to 44 degrees under partly sunny skies, though breezy south winds may gust above 30 mph.
Wednesday turns even milder, with highs near 48. By Wednesday night, rain develops before mixing with snow as temperatures fall toward 30. Some minor travel impacts are possible into Thursday morning.
By Friday, highs reach the mid-50s under partly sunny skies. The 6- to 10-day outlook favors above-normal temperatures, signaling early spring vibes heading into next weekend.
Five Day Outlook for Champaign, Illinois:
Monday: Sunny, high 31. Low 18 Monday night.
Tuesday: Partly sunny and breezy, high 44. Low 30 Tuesday night.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 48. Low 30 Wednesday night with rain/snow likely.
Thursday: Chance of rain and snow, high 42. Low 25 Thursday night.
Friday: Sunny, high 54. Low 36 Friday night.
