Chicago, Illinois – Temperatures will drop below freezing within hours tonight across much of northern Illinois, creating an immediate risk to plants and potentially slick early-morning travel outside the city.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a fast-moving system will bring gusty showers and breezy conditions through Sunday afternoon, followed by widespread subfreezing temperatures overnight. Lows are expected to fall between 27 and 36 degrees by early Monday, with the coldest readings in outlying suburbs and rural areas.
Communities west and north of Chicago—including Rockford, Elgin, Aurora, and Joliet—face the highest freeze risk. Sensitive vegetation may be damaged or killed if left unprotected. While precipitation will taper off overnight, residual moisture combined with temperatures below 32 degrees could create isolated slick spots on bridges and untreated roads, especially along I-90, I-88, and I-55 during the Monday morning commute.
Winds will remain elevated Sunday, with gusts near 30 mph contributing to rapid cooling after sunset. Gardeners should cover plants and bring potted vegetation indoors. Drivers are urged to watch for patchy frost and reduced traction before 8 a.m. Monday.
Conditions improve quickly Monday afternoon, with highs rebounding into the upper 40s to upper 50s. A stronger warming trend arrives Tuesday, but another cool night is possible before temperatures climb into the 70s by midweek. Further updates will be issued if freeze alerts expand.
