Illinois – A soft dawn glow spreads across frosted fields near Champaign as calm air hangs over still neighborhoods, giving the morning a quiet, almost brittle feel. Damp pavement and a chill breeze hint at a quick transition toward wetter, more unsettled November weather just as Thanksgiving travel begins across central Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service Lincoln office, clouds build quickly this morning with highs climbing toward the mid-50s. Winds remain light at first but turn southeast by midday, adding a steady coolness along I-57 and campus corridors. Travelers should stay alert for changing skies and prepare for slower traffic during the afternoon.
According to forecasters, rain fills in late today and becomes more widespread by evening. A few heavier pockets may develop toward midnight with gusts near 20 mph. New rainfall totals could reach a quarter to a half inch, enough to create pooling in low spots and reduce visibility on rural connectors feeding into Champaign and Savoy. Residents should charge devices, allow extra travel time and secure outdoor decorations.
According to emerging guidance, Tuesday brings continued rain and persistent cloud cover with highs in the low 50s. Winds gradually shift north, adding a crisp edge to the air. While no early-season snow chance appears for central Illinois, colder air gathering farther north suggests a Winter Tease may develop next week across the Upper Midwest.
According to early projections, Wednesday turns mostly cloudy and quiet. Thursday and Friday carry additional rain chances as a larger system approaches from the Plains. The weekend trends sunnier, bringing good windows for leaf cleanup, early holiday decorating or flexible Thanksgiving trips across Champaign County.
Five-Day Weather Forecast for Champaign, IL:
Mon: 54/42 – Increasing clouds; evening rain; breezy late.
Tue: 53/39 – Rain likely; steady showers; slower travel.
Wed: 53/40 – Mostly cloudy; calm; seasonable.
Thu: 61/48 – Rain likely; breezy; wet travel periods.
Fri: 58/40 – Rain likely; cooler air late.
