Illinois – Cold air hangs over central Illinois this morning, crisp enough to sting cheeks and harden sidewalks. Thin clouds slide overhead as winter quietly tightens its grip. While snowfall remains light, the bigger story is what follows: colder mornings and increasing wind chill concerns through the weekend.
The National Weather Service in Lincoln reports light snow developing late tonight across central Illinois. Accumulations stay minor, but even a dusting can make untreated roads slick. Drivers in and around Champaign should watch bridges and campus roadways where pavement cools fastest.
Friday turns mostly cloudy and milder by midwinter standards, with highs climbing into the upper 30s. That brief moderation won’t last long. Snow chances return Friday night into early Saturday, mainly as scattered flurries or light snow showers. Accumulation remains limited, but visibility could briefly dip during bursts of snow.
Colder air settles in quickly this weekend. Saturday and Sunday mornings bring lows in the single digits. Wind chills may fall between zero and 10 degrees below zero, especially during early hours. Any melting during daylight may refreeze after sunset, increasing the risk for black ice on sidewalks, parking lots, and secondary roads.
Travel impacts should remain localized, but caution is advised during late-night and early-morning hours. Slow down on slick roads, leave extra space between vehicles, and use care while walking on shaded pavement. Dress in layers, limit skin exposure, and check on pets and vulnerable neighbors during the coldest periods.
Looking ahead, winter remains dominant into early next week. While snow chances stay low, cold mornings continue before temperatures slowly rebound midweek.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Champaign, Illinois
Friday: Mostly cloudy, high near 38
Saturday: Scattered flurries, colder, high near 20
Sunday: Partly sunny, cold, high near 19
Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 16
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, gradual warming, high near 20
