Champaign, Illinois – The early morning cold cuts deep across central Illinois — the kind that nips at fingertips and turns each breath to steam. Temperatures rest near 21°F, and a soft west wind keeps the chill steady across fields glinting with frost. It’s another brisk start to November, but relief is already on the way.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, skies will gradually clear today after a few early flurries. Highs will rebound into the low 40s under late-day sun, though a brisk southwest wind may gust over 30 mph by afternoon. Veterans Day ceremonies should remain dry, but attendees will want an extra layer for the biting morning air.
The real weather shift begins midweek. A surge of mild Pacific air will push highs near 60°F by Wednesday and mid-60s by Friday — a sharp turnaround from the weekend’s deep freeze. Skies remain mostly sunny through the week, giving residents a good stretch for outdoor cleanup, early Christmas decorating, or light travel ahead of Thanksgiving season rushes.
Winds will remain a factor through Tuesday, with gusts up to 35 mph at times along open stretches of I-57 and I-72. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use caution during the windiest afternoon periods.
Looking toward the weekend, mild weather dominates through Saturday before clouds return late Sunday with a chance of rain. While winter’s grip loosens for now, forecasters hint at another cold push closer to Thanksgiving — a possible “winter tease” as the Midwest settles deeper into transition season.
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign, IL:
Mon: 44/25 – Cloudy early; clearing, breezy PM.
Tue: 56/33 – Mostly clear; gusts near 30 mph.
Wed: 60/33 – Sunny, calmer breeze.
Thu: 63/41 – Mostly sunny; light wind.
Fri: 66/50 – Mild; clouds increase late.
