Illinois starts the morning with a sharp bite in the air. Temperatures hover near 28 degrees across Chicago, and a light northwest breeze makes it feel closer to 22. The pavement looks dry, but shaded sidewalks still hide icy patches from earlier melt.
Expect a gradual February thaw today. Highs climb to 36 degrees under partly sunny skies. That slight warm-up may create afternoon melting along Lake Shore Drive and I-90. Once the sun dips, refreezing could occur quickly. Flash freezing becomes a concern this time of year. Bridges and overpasses cool fastest.
Tonight slips back to around 27 degrees with partly cloudy skies. Roads that turn damp late could turn slick by early Friday.
Friday delivers a noticeable shift. Sunshine dominates, and highs jump to 50 degrees. A southwest breeze reinforces the warm front. Snow piles shrink fast, and puddles develop along curbs. Plan for wet pavement during the evening commute.
Valentine’s Day Saturday stays mild with highs near 45 degrees and partial sunshine. Outdoor dinner plans look favorable. Saturday night turns mostly cloudy but quiet.
Sunday brings even brighter conditions. Highs reach 48 degrees under sunny skies. Washington’s Birthday warms further to near 52 degrees with partly sunny conditions. Early next week keeps that upward trend, with highs holding in the lower 50s. By midweek, readings approach the mid-50s with a slight chance of rain.
The 6–10 day outlook favors above-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest. A more active, wetter pattern may develop later next week, but winter’s grip is clearly loosening.
For now, Chicago transitions from cold snap to early spring vibes in just a few days.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL:
Friday: Sunny, high 50
Saturday: Partly sunny, high 45
Sunday: Sunny, high 48
Monday: Partly sunny, high 52
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 52
