The National Weather Service predicts that scattered snow showers and rapidly decreasing temperatures will provide hazardous road conditions across central Illinois during the Thursday evening commute.
Snow showers are expected to form Thursday afternoon and persist into the evening, with the most significant impacts occurring between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m., according to forecasters. While snowfall accumulations are forecast to be minimal, even brief bursts of snow may decrease visibility and make roads slick when temperatures fall below freezing.
According to the National Weather Service office in Lincoln, the main issue is how quickly temperatures drop when snow showers come through. Gusty winds may accompany the snow, decreasing visibility even further.
Patchy slippery spots may form on untreated roadways, bridges, and overpasses in Springfield, Peoria, Bloomington, Decatur, and adjacent communities. Officials advise drivers to use caution, slow down, and allow additional time for the evening commute.
“Even minor snow showers can create hazardous conditions when temperatures fall quickly,” the weather agency warned, stressing that conditions can change swiftly over short distances.
Temperatures are forecast to drop further Thursday night, allowing any precipitation on roads to refreeze. Motorists traveling late in the evening or at midnight should be cautious of ice patches, particularly in remote regions and on less-traveled routes.
Snow showers are likely to subside later Thursday night as cooler, drier air enters the region. Friday is predicted to be chilly but mostly dry, with better travel conditions during the daytime.
Residents are advised to check local predictions and road conditions before leaving Thursday evening. Despite the low snowfall, the Illinois Department of Transportation encourages watching traffic and travel updates and preparing for winter driving conditions.
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