Champaign, Illinois – Spring storms will hammer parts of Illinois starting Tuesday, with daily rain chances and gusty winds threatening travel across Champaign County through Friday. Drivers on I-57 and I-72 should prepare for sudden downpours and slick road conditions, particularly during morning and evening commutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives Tuesday morning, intensifying throughout the day. Rain will continue off and on into Wednesday, when showers become more widespread after 1 p.m., with winds gusting up to 30 mph. New rainfall could total between a tenth and a quarter of an inch daily, increasing the risk for localized ponding on roads.
City impacts will be widespread: heavy showers could slow traffic around downtown Champaign, the University of Illinois campus, and major thoroughfares like Mattis Avenue and Neil Street. Strong gusts may also cause minor tree limb damage and isolated power outages, especially late Wednesday night.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain bursts, check headlights and wipers before driving, and secure outdoor items ahead of gusty conditions. Rain chances stay elevated into Thursday and Thursday night, with a 50% probability of lingering showers.
The weekend promises relief. By Friday, skies begin clearing with a high near 68°F, and Saturday and Sunday look dry and sunny, with temperatures climbing into the low 70s.
Warnings remain in effect for shifting storm patterns, and additional weather statements could follow as the week progresses.
