Illinois – Headlights glow through thick gray air this morning as fog clings to streets, bridges, and expressways across the Chicago area. Pavement stays damp, visibility fluctuates, and travel demands extra attention as conditions evolve quickly during the first full weekend of winter.
According to the National Weather Service, elevated fog risk continues early today, with pockets of dense fog possible through the morning commute. Intermittent light rain adds to slick conditions on I-90, I-94, I-290, and surface streets. Visibilities may briefly drop below one mile before improving later this morning.
Clouds dominate the day, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 40s. Conditions feel mild for late December, but the calm does not last long. Tonight turns cooler, with temperatures slipping near 40 as rain tapers and fog gradually lifts.
Saturday stays cloudy and quiet, with highs near the low 40s. Roads remain wet in spots, especially shaded areas, but widespread travel issues are not expected during daylight hours. Saturday night brings another round of showers, signaling a more active pattern.
Sunday delivers the biggest impact. Rain becomes more widespread by afternoon, then colder air surges in Sunday night. Rain may mix with snow before daybreak Monday, especially north and west of downtown. Gusty winds increase, making conditions feel sharply colder and potentially reducing visibility again.
By Monday, blustery winter weather takes over. Snow showers linger early, highs struggle to reach the upper 20s, and wind chills dip into the teens. Any leftover moisture could flash-freeze, creating icy patches on untreated roads.
Looking toward New Year’s week 2026, colder air holds firm. Tuesday remains dry but chilly, and New Year’s Eve on Wednesday appears cold and quiet, favoring indoor celebrations after sunset.
Drivers should slow down in fog today and plan ahead for Sunday night changes. What did visibility look like on your drive this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL
Today: Fog and intermittent rain. High near 47°.
Saturday: Cloudy. High near 43°.
Sunday: Rain, turning colder late. High near 57°.
Monday: Windy with snow showers early. High near 28°.
Tuesday: Partly sunny and cold. High near 31°.
