Illinois – A thin sheet of ice could form across central Illinois tonight as light snow mixes with freezing rain, creating slick roads and treacherous bridges from Rushville to Champaign by early Sunday. The air turns biting as temperatures hover near freezing, and even a light glaze could make untreated surfaces hazardous.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 9 p.m. Saturday through 6 a.m. Sunday, covering much of central Illinois, including Decatur, Bloomington, and Champaign. Forecasters expect a wintry mix to arrive after dark, with 1 to 2 inches of snow possible north of I-74 and freezing rain further south.
Drivers should slow down and allow extra time—especially on I-55, I-72, and rural county roads. Even minor ice buildup can make bridges and overpasses slick by early Sunday. “Conditions may deteriorate quickly after sunset,” meteorologists warned. Sidewalks and driveways may also become icy, posing a risk for falls.
Winds will stay light through Sunday, but the next cold push arrives late Sunday night into Monday, sending lows into the teens. By Tuesday, highs rebound briefly into the 30s before another clipper system could bring light snow midweek. Long-range models hint that lake-effect snow could linger across the Midwest Dec. 11–17, potentially impacting early holiday travel.
Plan extra time if you’re driving Sunday morning, and stay weather-aware as winter takes hold across Illinois.
How are roads near you this morning? Let us know what conditions you’re seeing.
