Illinois – Dry grass rustles and warm winds sweep across central Illinois this morning, creating conditions that can spark fires quickly and spread them fast. The air feels mild, but the risk is immediate for fields, roadside ditches, and open areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln , southwest winds will push between 14 and 20 mph with gusts near 30 mph while humidity drops. That combination is elevating the fire danger across central, east-central, and southeast Illinois through the afternoon. Avoid outdoor burning and secure equipment that could spark.
Clouds increase later today, and attention shifts north of Interstate 74 where isolated thunderstorms may begin to develop into the evening. These early storms remain spotty, but they signal a much more active pattern ahead.
By Tuesday afternoon into Tuesday night, storms become scattered and more organized. Some could turn severe, especially north of a Quincy-to-Bloomington line. Expect strong wind gusts, brief heavy rain, and lightning that could disrupt travel on I-55, I-72, and I-74. Plan for slower commutes and stay weather-aware if traveling.
Rain expands midweek, with widespread showers Wednesday into Thursday. Periods of steady rain may reduce visibility and create ponding on roads. Keep headlights on and allow extra braking distance.
Temperatures swing from the mid to upper 70s today into the upper 50s by Wednesday, then rebound into the 70s later in the week, hinting at a warmer early April stretch.
Five Day Outlook for Champaign, IL:
- Today: Partly sunny, high near 76°F, gusts to 30 mph
- Tuesday: Chance of storms, high near 80°F
- Wednesday: Rain likely, high near 59°F
- Thursday: Rain and breezy, high near 72°F
- Friday: Slight chance of rain, high near 73°F
