Illinois — A faint orange glow spreads across the prairie this morning, lifting through a soft cloud deck and revealing damp pavement across Champaign and surrounding towns. The air feels mild and a bit unsettled, the kind of November warmth that often precedes a pattern change. That shift arrives Monday, right as early Thanksgiving travel begins picking up across central Illinois.

Southwest winds strengthen through the morning, sending crisp leaves tumbling across neighborhood curbs and creating brief crosswind bursts on I-57 and I-72. Gusts could touch the 30 mph range, so residents should secure bins, light décor, and early holiday inflatables. Temperatures push well into the mid-70s, offering one more late-fall warm day before cooler air starts nudging south.

Skies clear Saturday night as winds turn northwest. Sunday delivers bright, dry weather with a high near 53°F—ideal for yard cleanup, outdoor errands, or early holiday shopping. To be fair, the day feels calm and seasonable, but models continue to signal a quick moisture return by late Sunday night.

Monday brings the change. Clouds thicken early, and winds shift east as rain spreads into the region by evening. The 80% rain chance may create slick commutes and reduced visibility for travelers heading out early for Thanksgiving plans. While temperatures stay above freezing, the cooler push behind Monday’s system marks an early Winter Tease, hinting at more potent systems lining up later in November.

Tuesday offers partial clearing with a high near 53°F, but midweek disturbances return and could bring another round of steadier rain and gusty winds.

Residents should watch for updated timing, especially if rain speeds up and affects Monday afternoon travel.

Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL:

Sun: 53/29 – Sunny, breezy at times.
Mon: 52/40 – Mostly sunny early; rain arrives late.
Tue: 53/38 – Partly sunny; slight chance early showers.
Wed: 55/42 – Cloudy; scattered rain.
Thu: 58/48 – Rain likely; breezy.