Illinois – Headlights glow softly through gray mist this morning as fog hangs low over city streets and suburban highways. The air feels damp, visibility fades quickly, and the day begins cautiously.
Patchy dense fog is possible across the Chicago metro early today, especially west of the Fox River Valley. Some drivers may encounter visibility dropping below a mile. Slower speeds and extra following distance are advised on I-90, I-88, and surface streets during the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service, fog gradually lifts late this morning. Clouds thin into the afternoon, allowing partial clearing. Temperatures rise into the mid-40s, unusually mild for January 2026. Roads dry, and travel conditions improve through midday.
Tonight stays quiet, with lows near the upper 30s. Winds remain light, keeping conditions stable heading into Thursday.
Thursday marks a noticeable change. Clouds thicken quickly, and rain develops during the afternoon. Highs climb into the low 50s, continuing the mild trend. Rain becomes more widespread by evening, with a limited thunder risk overnight. Wet pavement and gusty winds could slow travel late day.
Rain lingers into Friday morning, then tapers. Skies stay mostly cloudy, and highs settle back into the upper 40s. Conditions turn calmer but remain damp in spots.
By Saturday, colder air begins edging south. Rain notes mix with snow at times, especially early, as temperatures hover near 40. Slushy patches could form briefly before precipitation lightens. Saturday night turns colder, setting up a winter feel.
Sunday brings a clearer signal. Snow becomes possible before midday, followed by partial clearing. Highs drop near 30, and any leftover moisture may freeze, raising black ice concerns on untreated roads.
Early next week trends quieter and seasonably cold, while daylight continues its slow January climb.
Seeing fog or slick spots this morning? Tell us what conditions look like near you.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: Morning fog, then partial clearing; high near 46
- Thursday: Rain developing; high near 52
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain early; high near 48
- Saturday: Rain possibly mixed with snow; high near 40
- Sunday: Chance of snow, then clearing; high near 30
