Illinois starts the morning wrapped in misty air, where cold pavement quietly sets the stage for slick surprises.
Across central and east-central Illinois, a Weather Alert is in place as light freezing rain threatens parts of the region early today. In Champaign, temperatures sit near 19 degrees, and fog hangs low over roads and sidewalks. Even brief drizzle can freeze on contact, especially on untreated surfaces.
The highest risk develops during the early morning hours. Areas north of the Peoria-to-Tuscola line face the greatest chance of a light glaze. Ice amounts stay minimal, but flash freezing remains a concern. Bridges, ramps, and shaded stretches along I-74, U.S. 45, and local side streets could turn slick fast.
Winds increase later this morning. Gusts approach 35 mph, pushing colder air back into the region. That wind can dry some pavement, but it may also hide lingering icy patches. To be fair, February roads rarely improve evenly.
Clouds dominate through midday. Highs climb near 38 degrees, helping conditions slowly improve this afternoon. Still, drivers should remain cautious through late morning.
Tonight turns colder again. Skies partially clear and temperatures drop near 11 degrees. Any remaining moisture may refreeze, creating isolated slick spots early Saturday.
Saturday stays quiet but chilly. Clouds increase, with highs near 25 degrees. Saturday night dips back into the teens. Sunday brings welcome change. Clouds thin and highs rebound near 35 degrees, easing the winter bite.
Early next week signals a broader shift. Monday warms into the mid-40s, with even milder air arriving midweek. Meteorologists continue tracking a developing warming trend across the Midwest, hinting at a late-winter thaw.
For now, slow down this morning and stay alert on untreated roads.
Seeing icy spots near you? Share conditions from your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook – Champaign, IL
- Today: Patchy freezing rain early, windy. High 38°F
- Saturday: Increasing clouds. High 25°F
- Sunday: Gradual clearing. High 35°F
- Monday: Mostly sunny, milder. High 46°F
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy. High 53°F
