Illinois – A sharp chill hangs over Chicago this morning, with temperatures near 26 degrees under a few passing clouds. The air feels crisp along Lake Michigan, and wind chills hover in the teens.
Sunshine builds through the day and highs reach 43 degrees. North winds shift south by late morning, gusting up to 15 mph. Roads remain dry, but early commuters may notice slick patches on untreated surfaces.
Clear skies settle in tonight with lows around 35 degrees.
A dramatic warmup arrives Friday. Chicago surges to 61 degrees with sunshine and strong southwest winds. Gusts could reach 30 mph by afternoon. It will feel more like early April than late February. Secure loose outdoor items and expect crosswinds on I-90 and Lake Shore Drive.
The weekend flips the script. Saturday turns mostly cloudy with a 40 percent chance of snow after noon. Highs only reach 35 degrees. Light snow could create brief slick spots, especially if bursts develop late day.
Saturday night brings a slight chance of snow before midnight with lows near 24. Sunday stays mostly cloudy and colder, with highs around 30 degrees. Another chance of snow arrives Sunday night before midnight.
This is prime time for flash freezing. Any daytime melting can refreeze quickly after sunset, creating icy patches on bridges and side streets.
Monday moderates slightly to 34 degrees under mostly cloudy skies. By midweek, highs climb into the lower 40s, hinting at a gradual March warmup.
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois:
Today: Mostly sunny, high 43.
Friday: Sunny and breezy, high 61.
Saturday: Chance of snow, high 35.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, high 30.
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high 34.
