Illinois — The air across Central Illinois carries that familiar late-November bite this morning — the kind that rustles flags, shakes windows, and hints that winter isn’t far off. Powerful west winds topping 45–50 mph continue early today before easing by evening, part of a broader Thanksgiving week weather shift now sweeping across the Midwest.
The National Weather Service in Lincoln has a Wind Advisory in effect through 6 p.m. for much of Central and East-Central Illinois, including Champaign, Urbana, and Springfield. Drivers along Interstate 72 and I-57 should brace for strong crosswinds, especially high-profile vehicles. Loose holiday decorations or lawn items could blow around, so securing them early is a good idea.
Once skies clear tonight, Thanksgiving Day brings a calmer setup — sunny, crisp, and seasonably cool with highs near 36°F. It’s ideal for travel and gatherings, but the quiet stretch won’t last.
By Friday evening, a developing winter storm system takes aim at the region, drawing in moisture and colder air. Rain is expected to change to snow after sunset, with the potential for 2–4 inches north of the Taylorville-to-Macomb line. Snow could linger into Saturday morning, reducing visibility and creating slippery travel for early shoppers and weekend travelers.
Behind the storm, temperatures tumble into the 20s by Sunday with another cold snap possible next week as Arctic air spreads eastward by December 1.
For now, Illinoisans can enjoy a quiet Thanksgiving — but winter’s first true test may arrive before the leftovers cool.
Five-Day Outlook (Wed–Sun)
• Today: Windy, 37°F.
• Thursday: Sunny, 36°F.
• Friday: Rain-to-snow, 34°F.
• Saturday: Snow likely, 36°F.
• Sunday: Partly sunny, 28°F.
