Illinois – A brisk wind sweeps across central Illinois this morning, bending flags and cutting through layers. Sidewalks feel hard and dry, but the air carries a sharp December edge. It’s the kind of cold that forces hands into pockets fast.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, temperatures sit near 30 degrees early with wind chills in the teens. South winds gust over 25 mph at times, especially across open farmland and along I-57 and I-74. Drivers should expect brief crosswinds through late morning.
Skies turn partly sunny later today, allowing temperatures to climb into the mid-40s. The sunshine helps, but the breeze keeps conditions feeling colder. Tonight turns quiet and colder again. Lows drop near 21 degrees, setting up frost and freeze conditions by early Sunday. Watch bridges, ramps, and shaded streets for slick patches.
Sunday brings a calmer winter day. Sunshine dominates, and highs reach the mid-30s. Travel conditions improve through the afternoon, though cold pavement limits melting early. It’s a good day for errands, but winter coats remain necessary.
Changes arrive Monday. Clouds increase, and temperatures rebound into the mid-40s with lighter winds. By Tuesday, highs surge into the low 50s, followed by upper 50s midweek. Meteorologists describe this as a winter tease rather than a lasting shift.
This warm-to-cold pattern matters. Mild afternoons followed by cold nights can create flash-freeze risks later if rain arrives. While no snow signals appear now, residents should stay weather-aware as Christmas approaches.
Looking ahead to Christmas travel, central Illinois appears favorable. Dry roads and milder temperatures should help holiday plans. Still, December patterns can change quickly.
Heading out today or traveling soon? Tell us how cold it feels where you are.
Five Day Outlook for Champaign–Urbana, Illinois
• Today: Partly sunny and breezy, high near 46
• Sunday: Sunny and colder, high near 34
• Monday: Partly sunny, high near 44
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, warmer, high near 53
• Wednesday: Cloudy and mild, high near 57
