Illinois – Snowflakes swirl sideways in gusty winds as plows struggle to keep pace, and the cold cuts fast through exposed skin. This is the kind of December morning that forces plans to change.
A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect across central and east-central Illinois, including Champaign County, as accumulating snow continues through this afternoon. According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, 3 to 7 inches of snow are expected, with heavier bands possible north of the I-72 corridor. Snow-covered roads and rapidly changing visibility are creating hazardous travel conditions.
At the same time, a Cold Weather Advisory follows close behind. Wind chills are expected to plunge between 15 and 25 degrees below zero tonight into Sunday morning. According to the National Weather Service, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Anyone heading out should cover all skin and limit time outdoors.
Travel impacts are ongoing. Roads including I-57, I-74, and local highways may become slick quickly as snowfall rates increase. Drivers should slow down, leave extra distance, and be prepared for sudden stops. After snow tapers later today, flash freezing becomes a concern as temperatures drop sharply.
Sunday turns dry but brutally cold. Highs struggle near 5 degrees, with biting winds keeping wind chills well below zero. Sunday night brings clearing skies and lows near -7, reinforcing dangerous cold conditions.
By Monday, sunshine returns and temperatures recover into the mid-20s, offering some relief. Milder air arrives Tuesday, pushing highs into the mid-30s, but melting snow could refreeze at night.
This storm marks a true winter takeover. Are roads icy where you are, or did snow totals climb higher than expected?
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, IL:
Sat: 20/-4 – Heavy snow at times; hazardous travel, flash freeze risk late.
Sun: 5/-7 – Mostly clear, bitter cold; dangerous wind chills.
Mon: 25/16 – Mostly sunny; cold but improving conditions.
Tue: 35/29 – Mostly sunny; melting snow, refreeze risk late.
Wed: 41/38 – Partly sunny; milder, chance of rain late.
