Weather
Northern Illinois Weather Alert: 60° Warmth Gives Way to Snow Potential Nov 12-13
Chicago, IL – Chicago could see its first snowflakes of the season late Thursday, Nov. 12, into Friday morning, Nov. 13, as a colder weather pattern moves into northeastern Illinois, bringing falling
By Nolan Pierce · 2026-11-08T09:38:47.842Z
Chicago, IL – Chicago could see its first snowflakes of the season late Thursday, Nov. 12, into Friday morning, Nov. 13, as a colder weather pattern moves into northeastern Illinois, bringing falling temperatures and the potential for lake effect precipitation after several days of unusually mild November weather.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, dry and mild conditions will continue through Tuesday before precipitation chances return Wednesday and Thursday. Forecasters are highlighting lake effect showers Thursday as temperatures begin dropping across the region.
Chicago Enjoys Warmth Before Colder Air Arrives
Sunday through Tuesday will bring relatively pleasant conditions across the Chicago metropolitan area, with afternoon temperatures generally reaching the upper 50s and lower 60s.
Some communities could reach 65 degrees Tuesday, while Chicago itself is forecast to approach 60 degrees.
However, temperatures will begin falling Wednesday as precipitation chances increase.
By Thursday, regional highs are expected to range from 45 to 51 degrees, with overnight lows potentially dropping into the upper 20s and 30s.
Lake Effect Showers Could Bring First Flurries
The National Weather Service identifies lake effect showers as a possibility Thursday, particularly near Lake Michigan.
If precipitation continues into Thursday night while temperatures fall sufficiently, some locations could experience wet snowflakes or flurries.
However, the current Chicago specific forecast indicates rain chances Thursday and Friday, meaning the potential for snow remains uncertain.
The exact placement of lake effect precipitation will be important in determining which communities experience showers and whether any snow develops.
Will Snow Accumulate in Chicago?
At this stage, accumulating snowfall is not indicated in the available forecast.
Thursday night's Chicago area low is expected to reach approximately 37 degrees, although colder locations farther inland could approach or fall below freezing.
Residents traveling along Lake Michigan and across northeastern Illinois should monitor updated forecasts as the potential for early season wintry precipitation becomes clearer.
The upcoming pattern could provide Chicago's next opportunity for its first snowflakes before Thanksgiving.