Chicago, Illinois – A cold New Year’s Day is settling over northern Illinois, with spotty light snow possible near and north of the I-90 corridor this afternoon before a quieter, gradually milder pattern takes hold into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, most of the region remains dry today, but a narrow window for light snow exists for communities near the Wisconsin border, including areas along I-90. Any snow that does develop is expected to be light and brief, with little to no accumulation. Afternoon temperatures remain cold, topping out between 18 and 27 degrees across the metro area.
Elsewhere in northeastern Illinois, clouds dominate with dry roads expected. Tonight turns colder, with lows falling into the low to mid-teens, especially in outlying suburbs. Drivers are advised to remain alert for isolated slick spots where brief snow showers occur late today.
Conditions begin to slowly improve Friday and Saturday. Daytime highs climb into the 20s and lower 30s, with overnight lows staying mainly in the teens. While still cold, the trend points toward more manageable winter conditions for weekend travel and outdoor plans.
Sunday continues the gradual warm-up, with highs reaching the upper 20s to mid-30s under mostly cloudy skies. The most noticeable change arrives early next week as milder air spreads in. By Monday, temperatures rebound into the upper 30s and 40s, offering the warmest conditions since before the holiday.
No significant storms are expected through early next week, and dry weather dominates after today’s minor snow chance. Officials encourage residents to dress for the cold today, limit time outdoors during the coldest hours, and stay informed in case the snow band shifts slightly south.
Warnings are not in effect, but updates will continue as temperatures moderate into next week.
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
• New Year’s Day: Light snow possible near I-90, high 18–27, low 11–17
• Friday: Mostly cloudy and cold, high 23–30, low 15–20
• Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 27–32, low 12–17
• Sunday: Cloudy, high 28–34, low 23–27
• Monday: Milder and partly sunny, high 39–47
