CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — A cool breeze sweeps across the open fields near the University of Illinois campus this morning, carrying that unmistakable October crispness. After a stretch of mild days, Central Illinois is about to feel its first true taste of fall chill — and possibly its first frost before week’s end.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, breezy and mild weather Tuesday will quickly give way to clear, colder nights starting Wednesday. Winds from the west will gust up to 30 mph Tuesday afternoon, stirring leaves across roads and parking lots as highs reach the lower 60s. By evening, those winds ease, allowing temperatures to drop sharply into the upper 30s under mostly clear skies.
Frost becomes a real possibility early Thursday, particularly in rural and low-lying areas west of I-57 and along Route 45. Lows near 34°F could mark the first fall frost for parts of Champaign County. Residents are urged to cover outdoor plants or bring in potted vegetation before sunset Wednesday to prevent damage.
By Thursday and Friday, sunshine dominates, though highs will stay modest — near 58°F Thursday and 61°F Friday. Both mornings could start with a silvery glaze of frost across rooftops and lawns, signaling the season’s coldest air yet.
Looking ahead, the weekend warms slightly but keeps that autumn rhythm. Expect highs in the upper 50s to low 60s and a slight chance of showers Saturday night. For now, Champaign’s first brush with early frost is a reminder — winter’s transition season has quietly begun.
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign, IL:
Tue: 61/40 – Breezy; increasing clouds.
Wed: 59/36 – Sunny; cooler.
Thu: 59/34 – Frost early; bright and calm.
Fri: 61/42 – Patchy frost early; mostly sunny.
Sat: 58/47 – Mostly cloudy; slight shower chance.