Chicago, IL – Drivers across northern Illinois will face a sharp temperature drop by daybreak Saturday, with readings falling into the 20s and spotty snow threatening slick stretches along I-94 and I-290 before the weekend begins.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a cold front sweeping through the state will push highs down into the 30s and lower 40s Saturday, with overnight lows sliding between 17 and 26 degrees by early Sunday. Light snow may brush areas near the Wisconsin state line Saturday, though widespread accumulation is not expected.
The colder air will lock in through Sunday morning, increasing the risk of icy patches on elevated roadways including I-55, I-57 and the Jane Addams Tollway. Lake Shore Drive could see brief slick spots around sunrise Saturday as pavement temperatures fall below freezing. IDOT crews will monitor bridges and overpasses, where surfaces cool fastest.
By Monday, sunshine returns with highs climbing into the upper 30s and low 40s across Cook, DuPage and Lake counties. The warming trend continues Tuesday as rain develops along the I-88 and I-80 corridors, with afternoon highs nearing the upper 40s. That rain could dampen the Tuesday evening commute in downtown Chicago and Aurora.
Residents should limit non-essential travel during early morning hours this weekend, allow extra braking distance and check tire pressure as temperatures fluctuate. Keep mobile devices charged in case of delays.
Cold conditions will persist into early next week before a wetter pattern settles in by Tuesday afternoon. Additional advisories could be issued if snow chances expand near the state line.
