Champaign, Illinois – Sunshine dominates and rain remains nowhere to be found as Central Illinois starts the week under a persistent dry dome. For Champaign and towns along the I-57 corridor, the focus now shifts from pleasant fall weather to growing concerns about heat and dryness lasting through at least Friday, September 12.
According to the National Weather Service and the latest 6–10 day precipitation outlook from NOAA, below-normal rainfall continues to grip the region, extending a dry stretch that’s now threatening lawns, crops, and increasing the fire danger in rural areas.
Temperatures will climb steadily from the mid-70s Monday to near 91°F by Friday, with no measurable rain expected during that time. Winds will stay light and skies mostly clear, ideal for outdoor work, harvest prep, and travel — but not for moisture recovery. Daytime humidity will stay low, accelerating drying in both soil and vegetation across Champaign, Piatt, and Douglas counties.
Officials recommend postponing any open burning and closely monitoring dry grasslands and fields. With no organized rain systems in the forecast, the region could see heightened drought alerts if this trend extends into next week.
Five-Day Forecast for Champaign, Illinois:
- Monday: Sunny, high 76°F, low 48°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 81°F, low 56°F
- Wednesday: Sunny, high 87°F, low 60°F
- Thursday: Sunny, high 89°F, low 61°F
- Friday: Sunny, high 91°F, low 62°F
