Warmer Weather Ahead for Chicago Area

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After a cold start to the week, the Chicago area is set to see a significant warm-up with temperatures climbing into the 30s by the end of the workweek. While there is a chance for light snow showers on Thursday, many areas are expected to stay mainly dry. A better chance for a wintry mix is possible on Friday as warmer air moves in.

Why it matters

The upcoming warm-up will provide welcome relief from the bitter cold that has gripped the Chicago area in recent days. The warmer temperatures will allow residents to get outside and enjoy the milder weather, which can have a positive impact on morale and economic activity.

The details

Skies will be partly sunny on Wednesday with lingering lake effect snow showers possible in the morning. Highs are expected to reach the upper 20s. Warmer air will then move in on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures soaring well into the 30s by Friday afternoon. A few spots may even hit 40 degrees by the end of the workweek. There is a chance for light snow showers on Thursday, but many areas will stay mainly dry. A better chance for a wintry mix will be possible on Friday.

• Lows will fall into the teens for most of the region on Tuesday night, with a few spots near the Wisconsin state line dipping into the upper single digits.
• Lingering lake effect snow showers are possible Wednesday morning.
• Warmer air moves in on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures reaching the 30s by the end of the workweek.
• A chance for light snow showers on Thursday, with a better chance for a wintry mix on Friday.
• Cooler temperatures return on Saturday with highs in the upper 20s under partly cloudy skies.