Illinois — Tail lights blur into a silver haze this morning as dense fog drapes central Illinois. Visibility drops to a quarter mile or less in spots, forcing drivers to slow along I-55, I-72, and rural routes before winter’s next punch arrives.
The National Weather Service reports a Dense Fog Advisory through mid-morning across much of central Illinois. Fog may linger longer west of I-55. Wet pavement and low visibility make early travel hazardous. Use low beams and leave extra stopping distance.
Conditions improve later today, offering a brief break for errands or travel. That break closes quickly Sunday. Showers develop by afternoon as a strong cold front approaches. A few thunderstorms are possible south of the I-72 corridor, with gusty winds the main concern.
By Sunday evening, temperatures fall sharply. Rain changes to snow as northwest winds strengthen. While snow totals remain light, slick spots may develop quickly. Blowing snow could briefly reduce visibility, especially on open highways and rural stretches.
Plan ahead if traveling Sunday night. Flash freezing becomes likely as readings drop into the teens. Bridges and overpasses will ice first. Behind the front, much colder air pours in fast.
Monday morning turns biting cold. Wind chills plunge into the single digits below zero north of I-70. Gusts near 40 mph add to the danger, even with improving skies. Dress in layers and limit time outdoors.
Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve Wednesday, conditions appear quieter but cold. Highs hover in the 20s, keeping winter firmly in place as 2026 approaches. Holiday travelers should expect dry roads but frigid air.
Meteorologists continue tracking lingering wind impacts into Monday. Additional advisories may be issued if conditions worsen.
Seeing fog, slick spots, or snow where you are? Share what travel looks like in your area.
Five-Day Weather Outlook – Central Illinois
Sunday: Showers, then rain changing to snow, high near 66 early
Sunday Night: Snow showers, windy, low near 16
Monday: Partly sunny, very windy, high near 23
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 27
Wednesday (New Year’s Eve): Partly sunny, cold, high near 24
