Peoria, Illinois – A light dusting of snow may develop across central Illinois late tonight, mainly north and west of Peoria, where chances range from 20% to 50%. While totals are expected to remain well under an inch, even a thin coating could create slick spots on major routes after midnight, especially along I-74, I-55, U.S. 24, U.S. 150 and Route 29.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, snow showers are expected to form shortly after midnight and continue toward sunrise Friday. Temperatures will hover near freezing during the early morning hours, increasing the risk of untreated roads icing over. Light, powdery snow may settle quickly on bridges, overpasses and shaded stretches, reducing traction for the Friday morning commute.
Areas from Galesburg to Princeton and north of the Illinois River stand the best chance of measurable accumulation. While widespread impacts are unlikely, brief reductions in visibility and thin coatings on rural roads may surprise drivers heading toward Peoria, Chillicothe and Lacon before dawn.
Motorists are urged to slow down, give themselves extra stopping distance and avoid sudden braking if snow begins falling. Road crews may need to treat selected corridors where surface temperatures drop fastest, particularly on elevated portions of I-474 and the Route 6 bypass.
Conditions should gradually improve after sunrise Friday as temperatures climb above freezing and any light snow tapers off by midday. Still, forecasters emphasize that even trace amounts can cause early-morning problems if traffic becomes light enough for snow to bond to pavement.
Additional updates may be issued overnight if snow coverage expands or probabilities increase across the region.
