Illinois is waking up to a mild February morning, but the wind snapping across open fields is the real story right now. Gusts are already rattling loose signs and pushing light debris along roads in Lincoln and Champaign.
Temperatures climb toward 58 degrees this afternoon under mostly cloudy skies. South winds increase to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph and higher at times. By tonight, gusts could peak near 45 mph, especially with any passing showers.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, strong gusty winds up to 45 mph are possible tonight, particularly near heavier showers. Fire danger also increases Wednesday afternoon as warm temperatures combine with dry southwest winds.
A 40 percent chance of showers develops after midnight, with lows near 51. Wednesday turns sunny and warmer, with highs near 67 degrees and west winds gusting close to 30 mph. That warmth feels like spring, but it sets the stage for sharper changes.
By Thursday afternoon, a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms arrives. Highs surge to 66 degrees before storms develop. Some storms could produce locally damaging wind gusts, hail, and even a brief tornado. Stay weather-aware Thursday evening and have alerts enabled.
Colder air moves in behind the system late Thursday night. Friday brings sunshine but cooler air, with highs near 45 and gusty west winds. Any leftover moisture could refreeze early, creating patchy icy spots on bridges along I-55 and I-74.
The weekend trends quieter. Saturday reaches the low 40s under mostly sunny skies, with a slight chance of light snow in parts of central Illinois. No significant accumulation is expected.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures returning next week. Spring warmth may build Monday through Saturday across central Illinois. Are you ready for another quick swing before winter loosens its grip?
Five Day Outlook for Lincoln–Champaign, Illinois:
Wednesday: High 67, sunny and breezy.
Thursday: High 66, 50% chance of storms.
Friday: High 45, sunny and breezy.
Saturday: High 42, mostly sunny.
Sunday: High 34, mostly sunny.
