CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – The mild, breezy air across central Illinois this morning masks what’s coming next — a sharp, biting turn toward winter. Wet roads and gusty winds will give way to the season’s first real chill by Sunday, signaling the beginning of November’s colder pattern.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a fast-moving system will spread rain across the region Saturday afternoon, with a 20 to 30 percent chance that the moisture changes briefly to snow early Sunday. While little accumulation is expected, slick bridges and overpasses are possible before dawn Sunday as temperatures dive below freezing. Wind chills could fall into the teens by sunrise, making early travel especially uncomfortable.
Drivers along I-72, I-55, and U.S. 150 should prepare for reduced visibility and gusts up to 30 mph through Saturday evening. Power crews and public works departments are on alert for brief bursts of mixed precipitation and blowing debris. Residents are urged to secure outdoor decorations, protect pipes and plants, and check vehicle antifreeze as the first widespread freeze of the season settles in.
Conditions stay brisk through early next week, with highs struggling to reach the upper 30s Monday before slowly rebounding by Veterans Day. Despite the chill, the system marks only a “winter tease,” as models suggest a drier, sunnier stretch midweek — ideal for leaf cleanup or early holiday decorating.
Still, this weekend’s rain and sharp cold front leave no doubt: Illinois is stepping firmly into the season’s early winter chapter.
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL:
Fri: 67/39 – Breezy and mild; morning showers taper, clearing later.
Sat: 60/33 – Increasing clouds; afternoon rain, gusty winds.
Sun: 36/23 – Early snow chance; windy and sharply colder.
Mon: 37/22 – Mostly sunny; first hard freeze early.
Tue: 47/37 – Partly sunny; slowly warming.
