Illinois – A sharp February chill greets Chicago this morning, with temperatures near 28 degrees and wind chills in the lower 20s. Lakefront air feels biting, and early commuters along I-90 and Lake Shore Drive step into a brisk start.
Skies stay mostly clear, and sunshine takes control through midday. Highs surge to near 51 degrees by afternoon as southwest winds increase to 15 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. That fast rebound melts leftover frost quickly. Watch for brief slick patches on shaded bridges where flash freezing can linger during early hours.
Tonight turns mostly clear and cooler, with lows near 31. Winds ease after midnight, setting up a calmer Saturday.
Saturday brings partly sunny skies and a high near 43. Temperatures dip to the mid-30s Saturday night under mostly cloudy skies. Sunday delivers a stronger push of milder air, with sunshine and highs near 53 degrees. It will feel noticeably different from this morning’s cold snap.
Washington’s Birthday looks partly sunny and even milder, topping out near 56. By Tuesday and Wednesday, highs return to the upper 50s with periodic rain chances developing midweek.
The broader pattern across the Midwest favors above-normal temperatures through much of next week. Readings may run 10 to 20 degrees above average, signaling early spring vibes heading deeper into February.
For now, bundle up early and shed layers by afternoon. Are you feeling that dramatic temperature swing in your neighborhood today?
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois:
Saturday: Partly sunny, high 43.
Sunday: Sunny, high 53.
Monday (Washington’s Birthday): Partly sunny, high 56.
Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, high 51.
Wednesday: Chance of rain, high 59.
