Springfield, Illinois – Arctic air is expected to remain a consistent presence across central Illinois from Jan. 24 through Jan. 30, bringing a continued stretch of below-normal temperatures and reinforcing winter conditions across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, central Illinois falls within a roughly 60 percent probability zone for below-normal temperatures during the Jan. 24–30 period. While confidence is lower than across the Upper Midwest, the overall pattern still favors persistent cold with limited opportunities for meaningful warm-ups before the end of the month.
Across the I-72 and I-74 corridors, including Springfield, Decatur, and Champaign-Urbana, daytime highs are expected to run below late-January averages, with overnight lows frequently dropping into the teens. Even brief moderation periods may struggle to push highs much above the 20s, allowing icy conditions to linger on untreated roads and sidewalks.
Farther west and south, including Jacksonville, Taylorville, and communities along the Illinois River Valley, similar trends are expected. Snowpack and shaded areas may remain frozen for extended periods, increasing the risk of refreezing during overnight and early morning hours.
The Illinois Department of Transportation urges drivers to remain cautious during colder travel windows, particularly on bridges, ramps, and rural roadways. Residents are encouraged to protect exposed pipes, limit prolonged outdoor exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors and pets.
While the cold signal is not as strong as farther north, the Arctic pattern shows limited signs of breaking before month’s end, keeping below-normal temperatures favored across central Illinois through Jan. 30.
