Champaign, IL — Residents across central Illinois should brace for a mix of freezing rain and snow Thursday night into Friday morning. Roadways, particularly along I-74, could become slick, posing hazards for overnight and early morning travel.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), temperatures will drop to a low of 27 degrees tonight, bringing a 30% chance of freezing rain after 9 p.m., transitioning to snow before dawn. Gusty winds up to 18 mph could make conditions more challenging for drivers. Snow accumulation is expected to remain light, with less than 0.5 inches forecasted by Friday morning. Commuters should plan extra time and consider delaying non-essential travel until conditions improve.
Looking ahead, Friday will remain mostly cloudy, with a high of 34 degrees. Northwesterly winds will keep temperatures cool, with gusts reaching 31 mph at times. By Friday night, skies will clear slightly, and temperatures will drop to 19 degrees, marking one of the coldest nights this week.
The weekend offers a break from precipitation, with Saturday and Sunday bringing sunny skies and highs of 31 and 36 degrees, respectively. Sunday night will remain clear, with a low near 24 degrees, before rain chances return Monday.
For those traveling or attending holiday events, staying updated on road conditions and dressing warmly is crucial. Use caution, especially during late-night commutes tonight.
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