Champaign, Illinois – Heavy snow continues across central Illinois this afternoon, keeping roads snow-covered and hazardous as a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through early this evening.
Several hours of steady snowfall have already produced significant accumulations, with storm totals now ranging from 5 to 8 inches across Champaign, McLean, De Witt, Piatt, Douglas, Edgar, Vermilion, and Macon counties. Additional light accumulations of up to two inches are still possible before snow tapers off this evening. Champaign-Urbana, Bloomington-Normal, Danville, and Decatur are all seeing difficult travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service office in Lincoln, the warning continues until 8 p.m. CST. Snowfall intensity has eased at times, but untreated roads remain slick and visibility may drop quickly in heavier bursts. Bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads are especially hazardous, with compacted snow making braking difficult.
Illinois Department of Transportation crews continue plowing and treating major routes, including I-57, I-72, I-74, and U.S. 45. Even so, drivers should expect slow travel and snow-covered lanes into the evening hours. Rural roads and residential streets may remain snow-packed well after snowfall ends.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve. If travel cannot be delayed, motorists should reduce speed, leave extra stopping distance, and carry emergency supplies such as food, water, and a flashlight. According to state transportation officials, real-time road conditions are available at gettingaroundillinois.com.
Snow is expected to end this evening, but lingering slick spots will remain overnight as temperatures drop below freezing. Cleanup efforts are expected to continue into Sunday, particularly in areas that received the highest totals.
