CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Patchy dense fog slowed the morning commute across parts of east central Illinois Wednesday, but skies are clearing fast as high pressure takes control. Drivers along I-57 and U.S. 150 faced brief low visibility around sunrise before conditions improved. The National Weather Service in Lincoln said no hazardous weather is expected through early next week, marking a stretch of calm fall days across Champaign, Piatt, Douglas, and Vermilion Counties.
According to the National Weather Service Lincoln office, temperatures will hover near 70 degrees each afternoon through Saturday, with lows dipping into the upper 30s and 40s under mostly clear skies. Winds remain light from the northeast, gradually shifting southeast by the weekend. The mild, dry setup will hold through Tuesday, bringing textbook fall weather for harvest work, outdoor sports, and weekend events around the University of Illinois.
While fog may briefly return during early mornings, forecasters note visibility should improve shortly after sunrise each day. The calm pattern will allow temperatures to rise steadily, reaching the upper 70s by early next week. Residents are advised to drive cautiously during foggy hours, use low beams, and give extra distance on rural roads. With no rain or strong winds expected, it’s a good time to catch up on yardwork or enjoy outdoor plans before colder air returns later this month.
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL:
Wed: 70/39 – Patchy fog early, then sunny and calm.
Thu: 69/39 – Sunny, light east breeze; pleasant.
Fri: 72/51 – Sunny, light winds; ideal fall day.
Sat: 75/46 – Sunny and mild; calm evening.
Sun: 76/54 – Mostly sunny; warmer by afternoon.