Weather
Central Illinois Freeze Tonight: Temperatures Plunge Into Upper 20s
Springfield, IL – Central Illinois is bracing for its first widespread hard freeze of the season tonight, with temperatures expected to plunge into the upper 20s across much of the region. Some commun
By Avery Collins · 2026-11-06T20:24:19.926Z
Springfield, IL – Central Illinois is bracing for its first widespread hard freeze of the season tonight, with temperatures expected to plunge into the upper 20s across much of the region. Some communities could see lows near 27 degrees by early Saturday morning, potentially killing remaining sensitive outdoor vegetation.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, temperatures will fall sharply Friday night, Nov. 6, into Saturday morning, Nov. 7, bringing widespread freezing conditions to central Illinois.
Temperatures Could Drop to 27 Degrees Overnight The National Weather Service forecast shows overnight lows around 27 degrees in Springfield and Litchfield, with temperatures near 28 degrees in Decatur, Peoria and Champaign.
Bloomington, Lincoln, Jacksonville and surrounding communities are also expected to experience temperatures below freezing.
Farther south, communities near and south of Interstate 70 may remain slightly warmer, with some locations staying above 30 degrees Friday night.
However, forecasters warn that a hard freeze will become more likely across those southern areas Saturday night.
Hard Freeze Could Kill Remaining Vegetation The National Weather Service warns that lingering outdoor vegetation is likely to be killed by the expected freezing temperatures.
Residents with sensitive plants, flowers or late season gardens should take protective measures before temperatures fall Friday evening.
Potted plants should be brought indoors when possible, while vulnerable outdoor vegetation may require additional protection.
Temperatures Rebound Into the 60s Sunday Despite the sharp overnight cold, a significant warming trend is expected to begin Sunday.
The National Weather Service forecasts afternoon highs between 52 and 55 degrees Saturday before temperatures climb to 61–63 degrees Sunday.
The warming trend continues Monday, with highs reaching 65–67 degrees, followed by temperatures between 63 and 69 degrees Tuesday.
Residents across central Illinois should prepare for the overnight freeze before enjoying much milder conditions early next week.