Champaign, Ill. – Drivers across central Illinois may face slick roads on Wednesday as scattered thunderstorms and morning fog disrupt early travel. Motorists on I-57 should expect reduced visibility and wet pavement before skies gradually clear toward the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, storm chances remain in play until late Wednesday evening. Showers could redevelop between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m., bringing gusts up to 16 mph. By Thursday morning, drier air builds in with sunshine returning and temperatures climbing toward the upper 70s.
The biggest shift comes Friday, when central Illinois warms under clear skies. Highs near 81 degrees will make for a comfortable afternoon after a week of unsettled conditions. Winds will ease and remain calm, helping improve travel and outdoor plans heading into the weekend.
Saturday continues the warm trend with highs near 83, ideal for late September events across Champaign and surrounding counties. Nights will cool into the mid-50s, offering a crisp early-fall feel without any frost threat.
With the fall season underway, residents should take advantage of the dry stretch through the weekend, as early October could bring cooler air. While no frost concerns are on the immediate horizon, forecasters note seasonal changes could arrive quickly in early October.
Warnings tied to Wednesday’s storms expire by tonight, with no additional alerts currently posted.
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, Illinois
- Wednesday: Storms possible, high near 79, low 56.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 77, low 52.
- Friday: Sunny, high 81, low 55.
- Saturday: Sunny, high 83, low 56.
- Sunday: Mostly clear, high 84, low 58.
