Chicago, Illinois – A gray and unsettled weather pattern is expected across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana late Christmas Day into Friday morning, followed by a mild weekend before colder air arrives early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, another round of rain, drizzle, and fog is expected tonight into Friday morning, which may reduce visibility for overnight and early morning travelers. Forecasters note that fog could become locally dense, particularly during the Friday morning hours.
Temperatures are expected to remain mild through at least Saturday, with highs ranging from the upper 30s to upper 40s on Friday, warming into the 40s and 50s on Saturday, especially south of Interstate 80.
On Sunday, a cold front is expected to move through the region, bringing increasing rain chances, estimated at 60 to 70 percent, along with falling temperatures during the afternoon. Winds are expected to increase, creating blustery conditions, with wind chills dropping into the single digits and teens by Sunday night.
By Monday, much colder air will settle into the region, with high temperatures only in the lower 20s. The National Weather Service notes that flurries or snow showers may develop, particularly near Lake Michigan, as colder air moves over the lake.
Residents are advised to use caution when driving in fog, remain alert for changing weather conditions late Sunday, and prepare for a sharp transition to winterlike cold heading into the new week.
