Illinois – Light snow drifts across open fields and campus sidewalks this morning, dusting pavement just enough to turn wet roads slick. Gusty winds push flakes sideways at times, and conditions can deteriorate quickly as scattered snow showers move through central Illinois today.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, scattered snow showers may develop through late morning and again this afternoon and evening. Accumulations stay light, but brief visibility reductions, gusty winds, and slippery travel are possible across Champaign County and surrounding areas. Winds may gust over 25 mph, increasing the risk of localized blowing snow.
In Champaign and Urbana, drivers on I-57, I-74, and U.S. 45 should be alert for sudden slick spots, especially on bridges and untreated ramps. Pavement temperatures remain cold enough for flash freezing after sunset. Even minor snowfall can create outsized travel impacts during peak hours.
Saturday turns colder but quieter. Skies trend partly sunny, yet highs struggle near 22 degrees. Wind chills hover in the single digits. Saturday night drops near 9 degrees, setting the stage for a bitter stretch of winter weather.
Sunday brings increasing clouds and another reinforcing shot of cold air. Gusty winds develop again Sunday night, pushing wind chills toward zero. By MLK Day Monday, highs only reach the mid-teens, and blustery northwest winds may drive wind chills into the negative teens at times.
Looking ahead, dry conditions persist early next week, but the cold lingers. Overnight lows fall near 5 degrees Monday night, stressing pets, pipes, and vehicles. Dress in layers, allow extra travel time today, and watch for icy patches after dark. Winter’s grip tightens heading into the holiday.
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign, Illinois
Today: Chance of snow showers, windy, high near 39
Saturday: Partly sunny, colder, high near 22
Sunday: Increasing clouds, high near 24
MLK Day Monday: Mostly sunny and blustery, high near 14
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 25
