Danger Ahead! Freezing Drizzle Will Turn Central Illinois Roads Into a Skating Rink

A sneaky, invisible danger is creeping onto the roads—freezing drizzle is on the way, and it’s turning highways into ice skating rinks. If you’re thinking of heading out, think again! Roads will be slick, and black ice could be lurking where you least expect it.

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for areas including Peoria, Bloomington, Champaign, and surrounding cities. Light freezing drizzle is expected to start tonight and continue into the morning, creating extremely dangerous driving conditions. Temperatures will hover around freezing, meaning even a tiny amount of moisture can turn roads into a nightmare.

City-by-City Breakdown:

Springfield: Cloudy skies with rain early in the day. High of 38°F (3°C), low of 24°F (-4°C). Watch for ice overnight.

Peoria: Expect occasional rain, with thick cloud cover. High of 36°F (2°C), low of 23°F (-5°C). Roads could be extra slick in the morning.

Bloomington: Breezy, with periods of freezing rain. High of 35°F (1°C), low of 22°F (-6°C). Morning travel could be extremely hazardous.

Champaign: A bit of rain early, followed by cloudy conditions. High of 36°F (2°C), low of 24°F (-4°C). Sidewalks and bridges may be icy.

Decatur: Periods of rain expected, with thick clouds. High of 38°F (3°C), low of 25°F (-4°C).

How to Stay Safe:

Avoid driving if possible. If you must travel, reduce speed and keep extra distance from other vehicles.
Bridges and overpasses will freeze first. Be extra cautious when crossing them.
Watch out for slick sidewalks. A simple walk outside could lead to a nasty fall.
Stay updated. Follow weather alerts and be prepared for changing conditions.

This storm may not bring heavy snow, but it’s just as dangerous—if not worse. Freezing drizzle is one of the most deceptive winter threats, making roads treacherous without looking icy at all. Take it seriously, and stay safe out there, Illinois