SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A chilly night is setting in across much of Illinois, with the National Weather Service warning that widespread frost is expected after midnight Wednesday and a potential freeze could follow by early Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Frost Advisory remains in effect from midnight until 9 a.m. Thursday for much of central and eastern Illinois, including Peoria, Springfield, Decatur, Bloomington, and Champaign. Temperatures are forecast to dip into the mid-30s, leading to patchy frost across rural and low-lying areas.
A Freeze Watch has also been issued for late Thursday night through Friday morning as lows could fall to near 30°F. The cold spell may end the growing season for many parts of the state. Homeowners and farmers are urged to bring sensitive plants indoors or cover them with breathable cloth to prevent frost damage.
Drivers should also be alert for reduced visibility in frost-prone valleys during the early morning commute. More widespread frost and freeze warnings may be issued if temperatures continue to trend colder into the weekend.
Warnings remain in effect through Friday morning.
