Chicago, Illinois – After an extended stretch of winter cold, temperatures across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana are expected to trend warmer heading into the first week of February, offering gradual relief for residents and commuters.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, long-range forecast models indicate a steady warming trend beginning early next week. While conditions will remain seasonably cold in the near term, daytime high temperatures are expected to climb from the teens and lower 20s into the upper 20s and 30s by midweek.
The 10-day temperature outlook shows high temperatures rising near 30 degrees by Tuesday, with some areas approaching the mid-30s by Wednesday and Thursday. Overnight lows are also forecast to moderate, moving from single digits and below zero into the teens and lower 20s. Areas near major roadways such as I-90, I-94, and I-80 are expected to follow this regional trend.
Forecasters caution that the warming will not be abrupt, nor will it feel unseasonably mild. Temperatures are expected to remain close to average for early February rather than springlike. Periods of cold weather will still occur, and additional chances for snow remain possible, especially in lake-effect prone areas near Lake Michigan.
The National Weather Service emphasized that lingering winter conditions may continue to impact travel at times, particularly during early morning hours when refreezing can occur on untreated roads and bridges. Motorists using major corridors such as I-94 and US-20 should remain alert for changing conditions.
For students, workers, and daily commuters, the gradual warm-up may help improve road conditions and reduce the strain caused by prolonged cold, though winter weather precautions remain necessary.
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring updated forecasts as temperature trends and precipitation chances become clearer in the days ahead.
