Illinois Braces for Dangerous Subzero Wind Chills as Arctic Air Drops Temperatures to –15°F North of I-70 Tonight

LINCOLN, IL — Central and Northern Illinois will plunge into dangerous subzero conditions tonight as an Arctic air mass settles over the state, sending wind chills as low as –15°F north of I-70, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Lincoln.

Wind Chills Plunge Below Zero Across Much of Illinois

Forecasters say actual temperatures will fall into the single digits and even a few degrees below zero in some locations, creating harsh wind chills across the region. Most communities will feel temperatures well below zero through the overnight hours, with the most extreme readings expected between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m. Thursday.

Areas north of Interstate 70 — including Bloomington, Champaign, Peoria, and surrounding communities — are projected to experience the worst of the bitter cold. NWS maps show widespread wind chills between 0°F and –10°F, with the coldest pockets north of the corridor dipping to about –15°F.

Dangerous Conditions Expected Through Thursday Night

This prolonged cold snap will continue through Thursday night, with little improvement until late Friday. Even during the day Thursday, temperatures will struggle to rise above the teens, making wind chills remain hazardous during the morning and evening commute windows.

Meteorologists warn that frostbite can occur in 30 minutes or less when wind chills fall this low, especially on exposed skin. Residents are urged to dress in insulated layers, cover hands and faces, and limit time outdoors whenever possible.

Travelers Urged to Prepare for Ice and Vehicle Issues

Drivers across Illinois should prepare for slick, untreated roads, especially during the early morning hours. Black ice remains a concern beneath drifting snow, and vehicles may struggle with low tire pressure, frozen fuel lines, or slow engine turnover in subzero conditions.

Pedestrians should also use caution on sidewalks, porches, and parking lots, where thin layers of ice may be difficult to see.

Protect Pets, Livestock, and Outdoor Equipment

The NWS emphasizes the importance of keeping pets indoors and ensuring livestock have dry bedding, wind-break shelter, and access to unfrozen water sources. Outdoor faucets and plumbing should be insulated or allowed to drip slightly to prevent freezing.

Another Chance for Snow Ahead

This dangerous cold follows a light snowfall earlier in the week. A new weather system could bring additional snow chances over the weekend, although forecasters say confidence in timing remains low.

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