Springfield, IL – A strong winter storm continues to push across central Illinois this afternoon, bringing periods of moderate to heavy snow, hazardous roads, and rapidly changing visibility, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Lincoln.
Forecasters say bands of heavier snow are tracking northeast across the region, producing snowfall rates between ½ and 1 inch per hour through the early afternoon. Roadways across central Illinois are already snow covered, and travel conditions are expected to worsen as the storm intensifies.
Temperatures remain in the upper 20s to lower 30s, with southeast winds gusting up to 35 mph, adding to blowing snow and reduced visibility. In some areas, visibility may drop to a quarter-mile or less, making driving especially dangerous on interstates and rural routes.
The heaviest snow is expected through the afternoon hours before the system begins to transition to a snow–rain mix later this evening, gradually reducing accumulation rates. However, NWS officials warn that travel may remain hazardous well into the night due to lingering slick spots and falling temperatures.
Residents across central Illinois—including Springfield, Decatur, Bloomington-Normal, Lincoln, and surrounding communities—are advised to delay travel if possible and allow extra time for essential trips. Snowplow crews are active across major highways but are being challenged by the fast snowfall rates.
Motorists should keep headlights on, reduce speed, and maintain extended following distances. NWS will continue to issue updates as radar trends evolve and the storm shifts northeast.
