Champaign, Ill. – Storms may rattle parts of central Illinois tonight before the region turns hot and dry for much of the workweek. Drivers on I-72 and I-57 should watch for gusty winds and small hail late Sunday before conditions settle overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, scattered thunderstorms hold a 20 to 40 percent chance through this evening, with gusty winds likely in spots. Spotter activation is not expected, but residents should secure loose outdoor items and stay alert for sudden downpours.
By Monday, the pattern shifts to sunny skies and unseasonable warmth. Highs will climb near 90 in Champaign, Decatur, and Springfield, with light east winds keeping humidity levels in check. Tuesday offers more of the same, pushing the mercury to 91 under clear skies.
The middle of the week turns slightly warmer with highs in the lower 90s Wednesday. By Thursday night into Friday, another round of showers could creep back into central Illinois, bringing the next chance for measurable rain.
Motorists should prepare for reduced visibility and slick pavement during tonight’s storms. Once the workweek begins, plan for heat precautions, especially during outdoor activity. Hydration and shaded breaks are key, as temperatures push higher than normal for mid-September.
Storm threats remain minimal after tonight until late week, when scattered showers may return.
Five Day Forecast for Champaign, Illinois:
- Monday: Sunny, high near 90. Low around 63.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 91. Low near 62.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 92. Partly cloudy overnight, low near 64.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 85. Chance of showers at night, low near 63.
- Friday: Partly sunny with showers possible, high near 82. Showers continue overnight, low around 60
