Chicago’s first day of winter will definitely feel like the season has arrived, with chilly temperatures and partly cloudy skies on Saturday. The city’s high for the day is expected to reach into the mid-20s, accompanied by a slight breeze that will push wind chills down into the teens at times.
The day will bring a mix of clouds, with lake-effect snow showers mainly affecting Northwest Indiana. While Chicago is likely to stay dry, the snow bands moving in could bring minor accumulations, particularly in areas near the lake.
These snow showers might also reduce visibility and cause slick spots on the roads, so motorists in these regions should remain cautious. However, most of the Chicago area will experience dry conditions as winter’s chill settles in for the day.
As the sun sets on Saturday, the weather will turn even colder. A mostly cloudy evening will bring temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees overnight. Wind chills will make it feel even colder, reinforcing the feeling of winter in the air.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Chicagoans can expect a mix of chilly sunshine and breezy winds, with temperatures staying well below average for this time of year. While daytime highs will remain in the mid-20s, the wind will make it feel even colder, and anyone heading outdoors should be prepared for wintery conditions.
As Sunday evening arrives, the clouds will start to roll in, signaling a change in the weather pattern. By Sunday night, temperatures will drop further into the 20s, and the sky will become fully overcast. This will set the stage for areas of drizzle and freezing drizzle to develop overnight, which could lead to hazardous road conditions as the evening progresses. Drivers should be cautious, especially in areas where freezing drizzle is expected to coat roads and sidewalks.
By Monday, temperatures will rise slightly above freezing, turning the freezing drizzle into rain showers throughout the day. This shift in weather could create a slushy mess, as the rain combines with any leftover ice, and residents should be prepared for wet, chilly conditions throughout the day.
Looking further ahead, the forecast for the upcoming holiday on Wednesday looks a bit more mild, with temperatures slightly above average for the time of year. However, there may still be a few light showers throughout the day, so anyone planning to be out and about should keep an umbrella handy.
Forecast at a Glance:
- Today (Saturday): Partly cloudy with lake-enhanced snow showers. High of 26°F.
- Tonight (Saturday Night): Mostly cloudy with a low of 15°F.
- Sunday: Chilly sunshine with breezy winds. Highs in the mid-20s.
- Sunday Night: Cloudy skies with a low in the 20s and potential freezing drizzle overnight.
Chicagoans should be ready for a chilly start to the season and prepare for more winter weather ahead, especially with the chance of icy conditions and rain showers later in the week. Stay bundled up, and take extra care on the roads as winter settles in for good.
