(CHAMPAIGN) The Illinois State Water Survey in Champaign has released its monthly weather statistics, showing that last month was not only the warmest April recorded in Illinois since 1895, but it was also eighth wettest April on record as well. The preliminary statewide average April temperature was 58.6 degrees, 6.4 degrees above the 1991-2020 normal, 7.1 degrees above the 20th century average, and 5.8 degrees above the most recent 30-year average. The prolonged periods of warmth in Illinois broke 29 daily high maximum temperature records and broke an astounding 167 daily high minimum temperature records for the month. In fact, eight locations broke their all-time April high minimum temperature records. Meanwhile, the preliminary total for April precipitation in Illinois was 6.37 inches, 2.13 inches above the 1991-2020 normal, 2.65 inches above the 20th century average, and 2.19 inches above the most recent 30-year average.
(NEWTON) The 155th Jasper County Fair is fast approaching, set for June 21st through June 27th, the fairgrounds in Newton will be busy the weekend before with 4-H exhibit entries, judging, and more, with most of the same activities coming up in 2026, including the queen pageants, harness racing, truck and tractor pulling, the Whippoorwill Rodeo, the antique farm machinery show, the pedal tractor pull, livestock auction, and new this year, dairyland donkey races. Not to mention all the great concessions, games, and carnival rides, which will run the final five days and nights of the fair. A huge “thank you” in advance to all the sponsors and the Jasper County Fair Board. That’s on the fairgrounds in Newton, June 21st thru June 27th.
(OLNEY) The 2026 Richland County Spring Crash Demolition Derby is set for this coming Saturday night at the Richland County Fairgrounds in the Olney City Park. With derby time at 7:00, the pit gate will open at 3:00. The Grandstand general admission tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for children ages 12 and under, and free for children ages 3 and under. Pit tickets are $20 per person of all ages and free for children ages 3 and under. With four classes available, the entry fee is $40 per car and there will be plenty of concessions available for purchase.