Champaign, IL – Temperatures are set to plunge into the low 30s overnight, putting sensitive plants and early crops at risk across central Illinois within the next several hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, cooler air behind a departing cold front will drop lows to between 34 and 38 degrees by early Sunday morning, with even colder readings of 31 to 38 degrees expected Sunday night. Patchy frost may develop before sunrise, with a more widespread frost or freeze likely late Sunday into early Monday.
Breezy northwest winds, occasionally gusting over 20 mph Saturday, will gradually ease overnight, allowing temperatures to fall quickly across Champaign, Decatur, Springfield, and surrounding communities. While lingering showers may impact parts of east central Illinois early Saturday, skies will begin to clear, increasing frost potential.
Gardeners and farmers should cover or bring in sensitive vegetation and avoid leaving plants exposed overnight. Outdoor pets and vulnerable populations should also be monitored as colder air settles in.
Warmer conditions return quickly, with highs rebounding into the mid to upper 70s by Tuesday and Wednesday. Additional updates or frost advisories may be issued through Sunday night.
Five Day Forecast for Champaign, IL
Sunday: High 56–64°F, breezy, mostly dry
Monday: High 57–64°F, sunny
Tuesday: High 75–77°F, breezy
Wednesday: High 77–81°F, partly sunny
Thursday: Warming trend continues with mild conditions
