Champaign, IL – Umbrellas may not survive this one. Central Illinois wakes to roaring 40–50 mph gusts today as a Wind Advisory stretches across the region, bringing biting wind chills and swirling dust through midday. Drivers should plan for difficult travel, especially on I-57 and I-72, where strong crosswinds could push high-profile vehicles.
According to the National Weather Service, the advisory remains in effect until noon, with the potential for isolated snow showers developing as cold air sweeps in from the northwest. Those winds will drop temperatures sharply into the 20s by nightfall, with “feels-like” readings near the teens.
Meteorologists say a winter pattern shift is now setting up across the Midwest, with another round of snow likely beginning late Friday and continuing into Saturday. Central and northern counties could see 2–4 inches of accumulation, while heavier bands may form closer to the Wisconsin–Illinois border under lake-effect enhancement.
Travelers should prepare for slick, slushy roads by Friday night and potential flash-freezing as wet surfaces refreeze under dropping temperatures. “Even a light coating of snow can turn treacherous quickly,” forecasters warn.
Behind this system, Arctic air plunges south, sending highs into the 20s and lows in the single digits through early next week. Those without reliable heat should check on neighbors and pets as wind chills could dip well below zero across the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley.
Five-Day Outlook (Champaign, IL):
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 28°F.
- Friday: Snow developing, high 31°F.
- Saturday: Snow tapering, low 9°F.
- Sunday: Sunny, cold, high 20°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high 22°F.
