Illinois – Headlights glow through fog this morning across east-central Illinois as mist hangs low over fields and highways. Visibility drops quickly in spots, and damp pavement signals a developing Weather pattern that drivers should watch closely through Christmas Travel.
Early today stays partly sunny once fog lifts, with highs climbing near 55. Winds increase this afternoon, helping dry roads briefly. Tonight cools to the low 30s, allowing moisture to linger on untreated surfaces. Patchy fog could redevelop after sunset, especially outside Champaign-Urbana.
Wednesday brings a shift. Clouds thicken, and areas of drizzle develop by afternoon. Highs reach the low 50s, but light rain may reduce visibility along I-57, I-74, and Route 45. By evening, rain chances increase, and fog may thicken again. Conditions could deteriorate quickly after dark.
Christmas Day looks quieter but gray. Skies stay mostly cloudy, with highs near 54. Roads remain damp but manageable, offering decent daytime travel conditions. To be fair, this mild December stretch feels more like early fall than the first week of Winter.
Rain chances return Thursday night as warmer air surges north. Temperatures stay well above freezing, but steady rain could create slick travel late. Friday turns unusually warm, with highs soaring near 63. Gusty winds add to the springlike feel, making post-Christmas travel easier during daylight hours.
That warmth fades fast. Friday night drops into the mid-40s, and colder air pushes in over the weekend. Saturday stays mild, but by Sunday highs fall into the mid-30s. A sharper Cold Snap follows, with overnight lows plunging into the teens by early next week. Any lingering moisture could flash freeze.
Plan extra time during fog and drizzle periods. Watch bridges and rural roads after sunset. Traveling after Christmas? Share what conditions look like along your route.
Five Day Outlook – Champaign, Illinois
- Tuesday: Partly sunny. High near 55. Fog early.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy. High near 51. Drizzle, then rain late.
- Thursday (Christmas Day): Mostly cloudy. High near 54.
- Friday: Partly sunny and windy. High near 63.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy. High near 62, colder late.
