Springfield, Illinois – A Weather Alert is in effect for areas south of Interstate 70 as a bitter Arctic air mass and increasing snow potential move into central and southeast Illinois heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service Central Illinois, a series of cold fronts will bring a much colder air mass by Friday morning, with wind chill values dropping 10 to 30 degrees below zero, especially north of I-74. Despite the coldest air focusing farther north, the best chance for accumulating snow is south of I-70.
Forecasters say a strong low-pressure system tracking south of the region could still bring measurable snow to central and southeast Illinois, with accumulation chances increasing farther south. Because of this potential, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for counties south of I-70, where impacts are most likely to develop this weekend.
Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing through at least the first half of next week, prolonging any snow and ice impacts and increasing the risk of slick roads. Even light snowfall could lead to travel issues due to the persistent cold.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that forecast details, including snow amounts, may still change, but confidence is high in the arrival of dangerous cold and a heightened snow risk south of I-70.
Residents in southern portions of central Illinois are encouraged to monitor updates closely, prepare for winter travel conditions, and take precautions against extreme cold, including limiting outdoor exposure and protecting pets, pipes, and vehicles.
Additional updates are expected as the system approaches.
