Illinois wakes up to a muted winter morning, with low clouds hanging over wet pavement and headlights glowing through fog. In Chicago, visibility drops at times, and the cold air clings to exposed skin, a reminder that winter routines are back as schools reopen across the region.
According to the National Weather Service, patchy fog and areas of drizzle will linger through today, especially near Lake Michigan and along major corridors like I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive. Temperatures hover near 40 this afternoon, warm enough to melt moisture but cold enough to refreeze later.
That warm-to-cold pattern matters. As winds shift and temperatures slide back into the low 30s tonight, damp roads could turn slick. Side streets, bridges, and shaded intersections are most vulnerable, particularly during the Tuesday morning commute. Drivers should plan extra time and watch for sudden slick spots.
Tuesday stays mostly gray, with occasional drizzle and fog before noon. Conditions improve slightly by Wednesday as sunshine returns and highs reach the mid-40s. To be fair, the brief warmup feels welcome, but it sets the stage for another shift.
By Thursday and Friday, rain chances increase, and while daytime temperatures stay above freezing, any late-day cooling could raise concerns for flash freezing. Looking ahead toward the weekend, early signals hint at colder air returning, with light snow possible as winter tightens its grip during the first full week of 2026.
More updates may follow as conditions evolve. Traveling today or Tuesday? Tell us how the roads look in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
Monday: Mostly cloudy, patchy fog, drizzle possible. High near 40.
Tuesday: Fog and drizzle early, mostly cloudy. High near 42.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny and milder. High near 45.
Thursday: Chance of rain, mainly later. High near 48.
Friday: Continued rain chances, cooling late. High near 43.
