Illinois — A thin veil of snow drifts across central Illinois early this morning, dusting rooftops and briefly whitening untreated roads. The air feels damp and cold, and even light flakes are enough to create slick conditions in spots that drivers may not expect.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, Illinois, light snow remains possible along and north of the I-74 corridor, including Champaign and Urbana. Accumulation stays minimal, with little to no measurable snow expected. Still, untreated surfaces may turn slick, especially during the morning hours when pavement temperatures hover below freezing.
Travel impacts are most likely on bridges, entrance ramps, and side streets near I-74, U.S. 45, and local campus roads. Snow coverage will be uneven, which can make conditions feel deceptive. Drivers should slow down and allow extra stopping distance through mid-morning.
Snow chances fade later today as clouds gradually thin. Highs reach near 29 degrees, limiting melting. Any moisture left behind may refreeze after sunset as temperatures fall into the teens, keeping icy patches in play tonight.
Wednesday turns quieter but colder. Skies brighten, and highs struggle to reach the mid-20s. Roads improve overall, though shaded areas may stay slick early. Wednesday night remains cold, setting the stage for a subtle shift by Thursday.
Thursday trends milder under mostly cloudy skies. Highs reach near 30, and winds pick up slightly from the southwest. By Friday, sunshine returns and temperatures climb into the upper 30s, easing winter’s grip ahead of the Feb. 6–8 weekend.
The weekend looks seasonably cold but dry, with highs near 30 Saturday and low 30s Sunday. No major storms appear imminent, though winter travel risks linger during the colder nights.
Looking ahead, NOAA’s 6–10 day outlook shows above-normal temperatures building late next week across the Midwest, hinting at a gradual thaw.
Watch for slick spots early today and refreezing tonight. Are roads icy where you’re traveling this morning?
Five Day Outlook for Champaign, Illinois
- Tuesday: Slight chance of snow early, high near 29
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 24
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 30
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 39
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 30
