Chicago Breaks Century-Old February Heat Record

The city saw temperatures reach 65 degrees, the warmest February 16th on record.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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After a cold and snowy January, Chicago experienced an unseasonably warm start to the week, with temperatures reaching 65 degrees on February 16th - breaking a 100-year-old record for the warmest February 16th in the city's history.

Why it matters

While the warm spell provided a brief respite from winter, meteorologists warn that the balmy conditions are only a temporary preview, with temperatures expected to drop back down to more typical brisk conditions this weekend. The record-breaking heat highlights the unpredictability of weather patterns in the face of climate change.

The details

On February 16th, 2026, the temperature in Chicago reached 65 degrees, surpassing the previous record of 64 degrees set in 1925. The unseasonably warm weather came after a cold and snowy January, providing residents with a brief taste of spring.

  • The previous record of 64 degrees was set on February 16, 1925.
  • Temperatures reached 65 degrees in Chicago on February 16, 2026.

The players

Chicago

The city of Chicago, Illinois, where the record-breaking temperatures were recorded.

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What’s next

Meteorologists expect temperatures to drop back down to more typical winter conditions in Chicago this weekend.

The takeaway

The record-breaking warmth in Chicago highlights the unpredictability of weather patterns and the impacts of climate change, as the city experiences unseasonably warm temperatures in the middle of winter.