Lincoln, Illinois – Wind gusts up to 45 mph will sweep across central Illinois late tonight, creating hazardous driving conditions before sunrise Friday, especially along open stretches of interstate highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday to 9 a.m. CST Friday for areas north of the I-70 corridor. That includes Peoria, Springfield, Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana, Decatur, Galesburg and Danville. West winds will increase to 20 to 25 mph with gusts peaking near 45 mph overnight.
The strongest gusts are expected between midnight and 7 a.m., impacting travel on I-55, I-74 and I-72. High-profile vehicles may experience sudden crosswinds, particularly in rural stretches near Lincoln, Clinton and Tuscola. In cities such as Peoria and Springfield, unsecured trash bins and lightweight outdoor items could be blown into streets.
Tree limbs may snap under repeated gusts, leading to isolated power outages before daybreak. Residents should secure loose outdoor items and charge electronic devices as a precaution.
Winds will gradually ease after 9 a.m. Friday, though breezy conditions may linger into the afternoon.
