Champaign, Illinois – Wind rattles bare branches across central Illinois this morning as loose snow skims across open fields and rural roads. The cold feels sharper than it looks, and conditions can change fast.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across east-central and southeast Illinois through early morning, with another advisory returning this evening into Wednesday morning. According to the National Weather Service, southwest winds gusting between 25 and 35 mph are producing blowing and drifting snow in open areas. Wind chills are expected to range from 10 to 20 degrees below zero at times.
Early temperatures sit near 9 degrees in Champaign, though it feels much colder. Patchy blowing snow continues through the morning, especially along north–south roads and exposed stretches of I-57 and Route 45. Visibility may briefly drop, even where snowfall is light. Drivers should be prepared for sudden slick spots and drifting snow across short distances.
As the day moves on, skies turn partly sunny, but the cold holds firm. Highs reach the upper teens at best. Any melting during peak sun refreezes quickly, raising the risk of flash freezing this evening. Plan extra time for travel and slow down on bridges and shaded roads.
Tonight turns mostly clear and bitterly cold. Lows drop near 7 below, with wind chills plunging well below zero. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes if precautions are not taken.
Wednesday brings sunshine and calmer winds, but little warmth. Highs remain near 18. Thursday stays mostly cloudy and cold, with highs around 11. Friday remains dry and bright, topping out near 11 again. Winter stays quiet but unforgiving into the weekend.
Longer-range outlooks show below-normal precipitation across Illinois, while cold air dominates the Midwest even as warmer conditions build across the Southeast into early February.
Limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and watch for drifting snow and icy patches. How are road conditions where you’re driving this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign, Illinois
• Today: Patchy blowing snow, high near 18
• Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 18
• Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high near 11
• Friday: Sunny, high near 11
• Saturday: Partly sunny, high near 17
