Weather
Illinois Weather Alert: 35 MPH Winds, Snow Chance Nov 11-15
Chicago, IL – Cold rain, biting northwest winds and the possibility of wet snow could make Chicago feel dramatically different within 48 hours. Wind gusts may reach 35 mph Thursday as temperatures sli
By Claire Benton · 2026-11-11T09:57:49.195Z
Chicago, IL – Cold rain, biting northwest winds and the possibility of wet snow could make Chicago feel dramatically different within 48 hours. Wind gusts may reach 35 mph Thursday as temperatures slide toward freezing before the weekend.
The developing weather shift could affect commuters, outdoor workers and families across Cook County and the greater Chicago metropolitan area.
According to the National Weather Service, Chicago faces a 70% chance of showers Wednesday, November 11, with temperatures reaching approximately 54 degrees.
Rain becomes more likely after midday. Winds could gust to 25 mph as the afternoon progresses.
Thursday Brings 35 MPH Winds and an 80% Rain Chance The strongest local weather impacts are expected Thursday, November 12.
Forecasters predict an 80% chance of precipitation, with temperatures struggling to reach 47 degrees.
North winds increase to 20 25 mph, producing gusts as high as 35 mph.
Those conditions could make exposed areas near Lake Michigan particularly uncomfortable.
Drivers using Interstate 90, Interstate 94 and Lake Shore Drive should prepare for wet pavement and occasional strong crosswinds.
Thursday evening introduces another concern.
Temperatures fall toward 36 degrees as rain showers could begin mixing with snow after 3 a.m. Friday.
The National Weather Service places the precipitation probability at 50% during that period.
Friday Snow Chance Raises Questions About Slick Roads Friday morning brings a 40% chance of rain and snow showers before 9 a.m., followed by a chance of rain.
Temperatures should recover to approximately 44 degrees during the afternoon.
No measurable snow accumulation is specified in the supplied Chicago forecast.
However, wet pavement and temperatures approaching freezing deserve attention, especially on bridges and elevated roadways.
Friday night temperatures could fall to 33 degrees.
That is only one degree above freezing, raising the possibility of isolated slick spots where moisture remains and surfaces cool sufficiently.
Polar Air Spreads Across the Midwest The Weather Prediction Center is tracking an unusually strong cold air outbreak across the central and eastern United States.
Its November 11 discussion highlights falling temperatures, gusty winds and lake effect snow potential around the Great Lakes.
Chicago's local outlook supports a brief rain snow mix, but not a significant accumulating snowstorm.
No specific tornado threat is identified for Chicago in the supplied forecast. The national discussion places the stronger thunderstorm wind concern farther south.
Weekend Weather Offers Some Relief Saturday, November 14, looks considerably calmer.
Mostly sunny skies return, with afternoon temperatures near 46 degrees.
Saturday night falls to approximately 35 degrees before Sunday warms to 48 degrees under mostly sunny skies.
Residents should use the drier weekend to clear leaves, check outdoor drainage and prepare vehicles for colder November weather.