Illinois – Flashing lights cut through the predawn darkness as slick pavement turns dangerous along a major Central Illinois travel corridor.
Multiple crashes are being reported on Interstate 57 near milepost 190 in Coles County early this morning, prompting an active response from Illinois State Police Troop 7. Troopers say weather conditions are contributing to the collisions, and a detour is being prepared as crews work the scene. Traffic is slowing rapidly in both directions near Mattoon and Charleston, with backups expected to grow through the morning travel window.
According to Illinois State Police, changing road conditions are the primary concern. Light snow, freezing drizzle, or refreezing moisture can create patchy black ice, especially on elevated roadways, bridges, and ramps. Visibility may appear acceptable, but traction can disappear without warning. Drivers approaching the area should expect sudden stops, emergency vehicles, and lane closures.
Travelers are urged to avoid the stretch of I-57 near Coles County if possible until conditions improve. If travel is necessary, slow down well below posted speeds, increase following distance, and avoid hard braking. Emergency managers stress that secondary roads may also be slick, particularly where earlier moisture has frozen back over.
Conditions gradually improve later today as temperatures recover and road crews treat affected areas. Still, shaded sections and less-traveled routes may remain hazardous into the afternoon. Motorists returning from early holiday travel or weekend errands should stay alert for changing conditions mile to mile.
This incident highlights the broader December winter weather transition now underway across Illinois. Even minor systems can create outsized travel impacts during early-morning hours when pavement temperatures lag behind air temperatures.
If you are traveling through Coles County this morning, consider delaying your trip and checking IDOT and ISP updates before heading out. Are roads slick where you are?
