Champaign, Illinois – Cold temperatures and dangerous wind chills are expected overnight across the Champaign–Urbana area, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service office in Lincoln reports that although winds will gradually ease tonight, cold air will remain in place, allowing wind chills to drop to between 5 degrees below zero and 5 degrees above zero late tonight into early Tuesday morning. These conditions may pose a risk for frostbite with prolonged exposure.
Early Tuesday morning observations at University of Illinois Willard Airport showed temperatures near 12°F, with wind chills around –2°F. West-northwest winds near 12 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph, continue to contribute to the bitter cold.
Tuesday will bring a modest improvement, with increasing clouds and highs reaching near 30°F during the afternoon. Winds will remain breezy at times, keeping wind chills in the single digits to teens despite the temperature rise.
Tuesday night will remain cold, with lows near 26°F, followed by continued moderation on Wednesday, when highs are expected to reach around 36°F under mostly cloudy skies. Overnight lows Wednesday night are forecast to dip back to near 15°F.
New Year’s Day is expected to be sunny and cold, with highs near 28°F and lighter winds. Temperatures will continue a gradual warming trend late week, with highs reaching the mid-30s Friday and overnight lows remaining in the low 20s.
No winter storm warnings or advisories are currently in effect, and spotter activation is not anticipated at this time. The National Weather Service notes that no additional hazardous weather is expected through the upcoming weekend.
Commuters, students, and early-morning workers should dress in layers and limit prolonged outdoor exposure during the coldest overnight and early morning hours.
