Delavan residents woke up Saturday, November 29, to the season’s first major winter storm—a powerful system that blanketed Central Illinois in nearly ten inches of snow and brought daily life to a halt.

The heavy snowfall, which began before dawn and continued into the evening, left roads treacherous and caused a wave of closures and cancellations across the community.

Panthers Game Called Off

The Delavan Panthers were set to play their final matchup in the Bill Ruck Basketball Tournament in Mount Pulaski on Saturday night. Instead, the game was canceled as travel conditions deteriorated. Tournament organizers cited safety concerns for players, families, and fans.

Churches Close Their Doors

Sunday morning brought more disruption. The Delavan Methodist Church announced the cancellation of its worship service, a rare move underscoring the severity of the storm. Pastor and church leaders urged members to stay safe at home, promising to resume services next week.

Sunday Morning Breakfast Postponed

The American Legion’s traditional Sunday breakfast, a popular gathering spot for families and veterans alike, was also called off. Organizers said the decision was made to protect volunteers and attendees from icy roads and lingering snowdrifts.

A Rare November Snowfall

According to regional reports, Delavan received between 9 and 10 inches of snow, placing it among the hardest-hit towns in Tazewell County. Neighboring Logan County recorded similar totals, with the National Weather Service in Lincoln reporting 9.9 inches. For many residents, the storm was one of the largest November snowfalls in recent memory.

Community Response

Crews worked tirelessly through the weekend to clear streets, while neighbors pitched in with plows to help clear driveways. Despite the challenges, the storm also brought moments of quiet beauty—snow-covered yards and festive lights glowing against the white backdrop.