SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A crisp fall pattern is settling into Central Illinois, bringing the chilliest air of the season so far with lows dipping into the 30s and 40s tonight. The National Weather Service in Lincoln says patchy frost could form near and east of Interstate 57, especially in rural low-lying areas where temperatures will be coldest.
According to the National Weather Service, this early taste of fall will linger into the first part of the weekend before a notable warmup begins. Highs will climb from the upper 60s and low 70s today to the upper 70s and even low 80s by Monday. Skies will stay mostly clear, keeping rain chances minimal, though forecasters can’t rule out a few light showers near Champaign and Danville late Friday night.
Drivers may encounter early morning fog or slick spots in cooler valleys, especially around dawn Friday. Residents are encouraged to cover sensitive plants and bring pets indoors tonight, as temperatures near the frost threshold could briefly dip below 36°F in spots.
The Illinois Department of Transportation reports no major travel issues, though motorists should stay alert for light frost on bridges and overpasses early Friday. With sunshine returning this weekend, outdoor plans should go uninterrupted, offering a comfortable stretch of classic fall weather before the early-week warmup.
Five-Day Forecast for Springfield, IL:
Thu: 71/44 – Clear, cool; patchy frost east of I-57 overnight.
Fri: 74/47 – Mostly sunny; brief evening showers near Champaign.
Sat: 76/52 – Partly cloudy; mild afternoon.
Sun: 77/56 – Mostly sunny; warmer trend developing.
Mon: 82/58 – Sunny and warm; pleasant start to the week.
