Springfield, Illinois – Central Illinois is settling into a calm and seasonable start to the new year, with quiet weather expected through the New Year’s Day weekend and a noticeable warm-up arriving early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a stretch of dry weather will persist through the weekend and into the beginning of next week. New Year’s Day remains mostly cloudy across the region, with afternoon highs ranging from the upper 20s to mid-30s. Springfield, Decatur, Bloomington, and Champaign all remain near normal for early January, keeping travel conditions steady and uneventful.
Overnight temperatures dip into the teens and lower 20s, especially tonight and again Saturday night. While no precipitation is expected, cold mornings may lead to patchy frost on vehicles and untreated surfaces. Drivers heading out early are advised to allow extra time for defrosting and use caution on bridges and overpasses.
Friday and Saturday continue the quiet pattern. Highs gradually climb from the low to mid-30s Friday into the upper 30s by Saturday, with clouds lingering but no rain or snow anticipated. Outdoor plans remain mostly unaffected aside from the chilly air.
Sunday marks the beginning of a warming trend. Highs push into the upper 30s and lower 40s, signaling a transition away from the colder air that opened 2026. By Monday, a more noticeable change arrives as sunshine increases and temperatures surge into the upper 40s to mid-50s across central Illinois.
Emergency managers note no weather-related hazards are expected through the weekend, making this an ideal window for post-holiday travel. Residents are encouraged to stay aware of colder nighttime temperatures while preparing for milder conditions ahead.
The National Weather Service says the warming trend may continue beyond Monday, with additional updates expected as the pattern evolves.
Five Day Forecast for Springfield, Illinois
• New Year’s Day: Mostly cloudy, high 27–35, low 16–23
• Friday: Mostly cloudy, high 30–37, low 20–26
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 32–38, low 19–21
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high 34–40, low 26–32
• Monday: Sunny and warmer, high 48–55, low 32–37
