Champaign, IL – A cold front is set to grip Illinois starting Thanksgiving and lasting through early next week, bringing near-freezing daytime highs and plunging nighttime lows into the teens. Wind chill values are expected to drop to single digits in areas along I-72, posing a risk for frostbite and hypothermia.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures on Thanksgiving will reach a high near 38°F under sunny skies. By Thursday night, lows will fall to 22°F, with wind chills making it feel even colder. Residents should plan ahead, dressing in multiple layers and limiting time outdoors.
Friday marks the beginning of an Arctic blast, with highs struggling to reach 28°F. Overnight, the mercury will plunge to 15°F with wind gusts reaching 14 mph. These conditions could create hazardous driving along Route 45 and other major highways due to icy patches and strong winds.
The bitter cold continues into Saturday, with a chance of snow during the morning hours. Highs will hover around 29°F before dropping to 14°F overnight. Sunday and Monday remain mostly clear, but wind chill values will keep conditions feeling frigid.
The National Weather Service advises keeping pets indoors, maintaining tire pressure, and assembling a safety kit with blankets if traveling. Prepare homes for freezing conditions by insulating pipes and ensuring heaters are functioning properly.
Stay informed with up-to-date forecasts, and take precautions to ensure a safe and warm Thanksgiving weekend.
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