Springfield, IL – Dangerous Arctic cold continues to impact central and east-central Illinois Monday, with the National Weather Service warning that sub-zero wind chills will persist through midday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon CST today for large portions of central, west-central, and east-central Illinois. Wind chills are expected to range from 10 to 20 degrees below zero in many areas, with slightly less severe—but still dangerous—values of 5 to 10 below zero across parts of southeast Illinois.
The advisory includes a wide stretch of the state, impacting communities such as Springfield, Peoria, Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, Danville, Galesburg, Jacksonville, Lincoln, Taylorville, Mattoon, Effingham, Paris, and Tuscola. Officials say the coldest conditions are occurring during the early-morning hours, especially in open and rural areas where winds remain elevated.
Meteorologists warn that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, while prolonged exposure significantly increases the risk of hypothermia, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Residents are urged to dress in multiple layers, wear hats and gloves, and limit time outdoors. Pets should be kept indoors, and residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone without reliable heating. Officials also stress the importance of safe space-heater use and remind residents never to use grills or generators indoors due to carbon monoxide risks.
For those without adequate heat or shelter, Illinois 211 can provide assistance locating warming centers and emergency resources.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later this afternoon, but officials stress that the morning hours pose the greatest danger.
