Champaign, IL — A sharp drop in temperatures Friday night has prompted a spring weather alert for central Illinois, with Champaign-area lows near freezing threatening unprotected vegetation.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms may continue through Thursday night, but drier, cooler air will dominate by Friday. Temperatures Friday night are expected to fall to 32°F in Champaign and nearby counties. Residents should cover or bring in sensitive plants, especially along areas near I-72 where rural gardens and early crops are more vulnerable.
Friday’s daytime high will reach 53°F with mostly sunny skies. Winds from the northwest will range from 9 to 13 mph, gusting to 21 mph. By Saturday, the forecast turns pleasant, with highs climbing to 60°F under sunny skies. Saturday night dips to 41°F, while Sunday will feel more like spring with highs near 68°F and breezy south winds.
Rain chances return Monday, with a 30% probability of showers and storms before 1 p.m., followed by partly sunny skies and highs around 71°F. Another clear night follows Monday, with lows in the 40s.
Five-Day Outlook:
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 53°F.
- Friday Night: Clear, low 32°F.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 60°F.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 68°F.
- Monday: Showers likely before 1 p.m., high 71°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 61°F.
