Central Illinois residents should brace for a wintry weekend as snow and bitter cold temperatures take hold. Starting Saturday, light snow is expected south of Springfield, with 1-2 inches of accumulation possible in areas along and south of I-70. This could lead to slick roadways and hazardous travel conditions, particularly for those traveling near Effingham, Olney, and Robinson. If you must travel, give yourself extra time and exercise caution on bridges and overpasses, where icy spots are most likely.
The cold snap won’t end with the snow. Unseasonably cold air will settle across the region, with daytime highs struggling to reach the freezing mark. Overnight lows will drop into the teens, and wind chill values are forecast to plunge into the single digits by Monday morning. These frigid conditions could pose risks to exposed skin, unprotected pipes, and outdoor animals. Make sure to bundle up, let faucets drip to avoid freezing pipes, and bring pets indoors.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that these conditions are well below normal for this time of year. Be prepared for a harsh start to December, and keep an eye on the forecast for updates as temperatures drop further into next week. Stay safe and stay warm!
