Champaign, IL – Freezing temperatures and biting wind chills are set to grip Central Illinois starting Friday, impacting travel and holiday plans. Residents should expect highs near freezing and wind chills dropping into the single digits by the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, rain is likely Wednesday, followed by sharply colder weather through Sunday. Temperatures will plummet to a high of 29°F Friday, with overnight lows nearing 15°F. Wind chills will feel as cold as 5°F, especially during morning hours. Snow is possible Saturday afternoon as highs barely reach 30°F.
Travelers on Interstate 57 and other major routes should prepare for slick roads, especially during the rain Wednesday and potential snow on Saturday. Ensure vehicles are winter-ready, with blankets and emergency kits, and maintain tire pressure to navigate icy conditions safely.
Thanksgiving Day will offer a brief respite, with sunny skies and a high near 39°F. However, colder air returns Friday, prompting a need for warm layers and precautions for pets. The National Weather Service advises residents to check on family and neighbors vulnerable to freezing weather.
Looking ahead, Sunday’s temperatures will hover in the teens, with a high near 29°F, signaling a continued cold trend into next week.
Plan ahead by dressing in layers, keeping pets indoors, and monitoring road conditions closely during this Arctic blast. Stay updated with the latest forecasts as winter weather takes hold in Central Illinois.
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