Lincoln, Ill. – Gardeners and farmers across central and southeastern Illinois should brace for widespread frost tonight as temperatures dip into the low- to mid-30s, prompting a Frost Advisory for much of the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, overnight lows will range from 32°F to 37°F between 8 p.m. Tuesday and 9 a.m. Wednesday, putting sensitive vegetation at risk. The advisory covers areas including Springfield, Effingham, Decatur, and Lawrenceville, where skies will remain mostly clear and winds light — ideal conditions for frost formation.
Residents in cities like Taylorville, Mattoon, and Robinson are encouraged to cover outdoor plants or bring them indoors. While the cold snap is brief, it marks a sharp contrast before a quick warmup later this week. By Friday, highs could reach into the upper 70s and low 80s across southern Illinois.
Showers and scattered thunderstorms are expected to return Thursday, with rain chances increasing into the weekend. The NWS says storm chances will peak Friday afternoon, bringing potential lightning and localized downpours.
Frost concerns will fade by Wednesday morning, but additional weather alerts are possible later this week as storm systems move in.
