Springfield, Illinois – A wintry mix of rain and snow is expected to develop Wednesday night across central Illinois, with light snow accumulations possible into the Thursday morning commute.
According to the US National Weather Service in Central Illinois, precipitation will begin Wednesday night and continue into Thursday morning. While widespread heavy snowfall is not expected, a narrow band of 1 to 3 inches could develop somewhere near or south of Interstate 74.
Forecasters emphasize that confidence in the exact placement of the heaviest snow band remains low. Areas along and south of I-74, including portions of Champaign, Decatur, and Bloomington, could see light accumulations if the band materializes.
Impacts are expected to remain minor but could include slushy and slippery roads during the Thursday morning commute. Travel along I-55 near Springfield and Bloomington, I-74 near Champaign and Peoria, and US-36 near Decatur may be affected during periods of steadier precipitation.
The system is forecast to produce a mix of rain and snow rather than an all-snow event, limiting overall totals. However, untreated surfaces could become slick overnight as temperatures fluctuate.
Commuters, school transportation services, and early morning drivers may encounter reduced traction and slower travel times Thursday.
Officials advise monitoring updated forecasts as confidence in snow band placement improves.
