Champaign, IL – Central Illinois residents should prepare for colder weather and a mix of rain and snow through Thursday night. A weather system moving into the area will bring gusty winds and precipitation, primarily affecting locations northeast of I-74. Drivers are advised to take caution as roadways could become slick, especially during the overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Central Illinois, rainfall will taper off tonight before transitioning to snow in the early hours of Thursday. Accumulations are expected to remain below one inch, particularly in areas northeast of I-74. Breezy conditions with wind gusts up to 40 mph will make outdoor activities challenging.
Thursday’s high will reach 39°F, with mixed rain and snow expected in the afternoon. Overnight, temperatures will drop to the mid-30s, with continued snow chances, though accumulation will be minimal. Residents commuting during these periods should check road conditions and allow for extra travel time.
The forecast for the remainder of the week suggests calmer weather, with mostly cloudy skies on Friday and highs in the mid-40s. The weekend will bring a brief warmup, with highs climbing to near 58°F by Sunday. No additional significant precipitation is expected after Thursday night.
Stay informed by monitoring updates from the National Weather Service. Residents are encouraged to secure loose outdoor objects due to strong winds and to exercise caution on elevated roadways and bridges where icy conditions could develop.