Illinois skies are brightening quickly this morning, and a mild breeze is already pushing across Champaign. Temperatures climb toward 67 degrees today, nearly springlike for mid-February. West winds increase to 10 to 18 mph, with gusts near 30 mph by afternoon.
Roads along I-57 and I-74 stay dry through midday as sunshine expands. Still, gusty winds could tug at high-profile vehicles and scatter loose debris. It feels warm, but changes are already lining up.
Clouds thicken tonight as temperatures ease back to around 45 degrees. By Thursday afternoon, showers become likely, especially after 1 p.m. Highs hold near 65 before rain spreads more steadily into the evening. Some embedded thunderstorms are possible, and brief downpours could reduce visibility during the commute.
Colder air moves in Thursday night. Rain may mix with or briefly change to snow before ending. Lows dip to near 35. While significant accumulation is not expected, wet pavement could turn slick if temperatures fall faster than anticipated. This is classic flash-freeze territory in February.
Friday turns mostly sunny but cooler, with highs near 44 and a brisk breeze. Friday night drops to 25 under clearer skies.
Saturday stays mostly sunny with a high near 39. Another chance of light snow arrives Saturday night before tapering Sunday. Highs Sunday reach only the lower 30s.
Early next week remains chilly, with highs near freezing Monday. However, the 6–10 day outlook points toward moderating temperatures and a gradual return of spring warmth across Illinois.
Are you feeling the warm breeze today in Champaign? Let us know how conditions compare in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook for Champaign, Illinois:
Today: High 67, becoming sunny and breezy
Thursday: High 65, showers likely, slight thunder chance
Friday: High 44, mostly sunny
Saturday: High 39, mostly sunny
Sunday: High 33, slight chance of snow early
