Chilly Chicago Night Gives Way to Warmer Days Ahead

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Temperatures in the Chicago area are expected to drop into the single digits overnight as partly cloudy skies give way to clearer conditions, with blustery winds and some light lake-effect snow. However, the cold snap will be short-lived, with temperatures climbing back to near-normal levels by the start of next week.

Why it matters

Chicago's winter weather can have a significant impact on residents' daily lives, from commuting to outdoor activities. This forecast provides important information to help Chicagoans prepare for the changing conditions and plan accordingly.

The details

As of Friday evening, temperatures were in the mid-20s, with 25 degrees reported at O'Hare International Airport and north winds around 13 mph, making it feel closer to 14 degrees. Gusts up to 25 mph are expected overnight, pushing wind chills into the single digits in some areas. Light lake-effect snow developed Friday evening, mainly affecting areas east of Chicago, including parts of northwest Indiana and southwest Michigan. The snow is expected to diminish over the next 12 to 14 hours.

• Overnight lows are forecast to dip into the single digits in suburban areas, with downtown Chicago hovering near 10 degrees.
• Conditions will remain blustery through the night before winds ease slightly Saturday.
• Saturday will be cold, with highs near 23 degrees under mostly sunny skies early, followed by increasing clouds later in the day and a slight chance of a passing snow shower.
• Temperatures are expected to moderate heading into next week, climbing into the 30s on Sunday, near seasonal norms, and rising into the 40s Monday and Tuesday.
• While temperatures are forecast to dip back into the 30s by midweek, they will remain above average, with highs in the 50s possible later in the 10-day forecast.