CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Public services and organizations have implemented closures and emergency measures to ensure safety.
The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch from late Saturday night through Monday morning, forecasting a 60 to 80 percent chance of at least six inches of snow in areas including Champaign, Vermilion, Piatt, and Douglas counties. Mixed precipitation and potential ice accumulation are also anticipated, although updated forecasts suggest a slightly less severe impact than originally expected.
Regional Updates:
- Public Libraries Closed:
Public libraries in Champaign and Urbana will be closed on Sunday due to the wintry conditions. - Champaign Public Works Department:
Residents are encouraged to stay home and avoid parking on streets to allow snowplows to work efficiently. Crews will begin operations Sunday morning and continue around the clock until roads are treated. - Vermilion County Preparations:
The Danville area is projected to receive between four to eight inches of snow. Vermilion County Highway Engineer Adrian Greenwell urged extreme caution for those traveling during the storm, noting that snow crews may need to pause operations during unsafe conditions. - Warming Shelter in Champaign:
Nonprofit C-U at Home will operate a warming shelter at 309 S. Neil St. in Champaign next Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., as wind chills are expected to drop into the -20°F range. Volunteers are needed for transportation services and donations of food and supplies. Those interested can contact Volunteer and Event Coordinator Aleta Keith at 217-819-4569 or aleta@cuathome.us. - Village of Arthur:
Arthur has canceled its Monday village board meeting due to the weather and lack of pressing business. The next meeting is scheduled for January 20. - Rantoul Declares Snow Emergency:
Rantoul declared a snow emergency starting at 7 a.m. Sunday. Residents must move vehicles off designated snow routes to allow plows to clear roadways effectively. - Snow Removal Volunteer Program:
C-U Safe Routes to School is seeking volunteers to help with sidewalk snow removal after snowfalls exceeding two inches. Volunteers can sign up individually or as a group at cu-srtsproject.com/snow-removal. Outstanding participants may be recognized as “Snow Angel of the Month.”
Safety Advisory:
The National Weather Service warns that hazardous conditions could affect Monday morning commutes. Travelers are advised to consider postponing trips, exercise extreme caution, and pack emergency supplies in case of delays or stranding.