Chicago, Illinois – Rain and a potential rain-sleet mix could impact Illinois Feb. 18-22, with northern areas facing the greatest winter risk.
According to the National Weather Service 6-10 Day Outlook issued Thursday, Feb. 12, above-normal precipitation is favored across Illinois during the Feb. 18-22 period. Northern Illinois, including Chicago and Rockford, may see periods of snow or a rain and snow mix, especially if temperatures fluctuate near freezing.
Sleet is possible in localized transition zones where warmer surface air collides with colder air aloft. While widespread heavy snow is not currently projected for Illinois, minor accumulations cannot be ruled out in northern counties.
Central and southern Illinois, including Springfield, Peoria and Carbondale, are more likely to see primarily rain. The broader weather pattern supports heavier snowfall potential across Minnesota and Wisconsin, while mixed precipitation extends into Michigan, northern Indiana and northern Ohio.
Temperatures are forecast to trend above normal across much of the eastern and southern United States, increasing the likelihood of precipitation type changes across northern Illinois.
For commuters and students traveling after President’s Day week, changing precipitation types could create slick road conditions during early morning and overnight hours, particularly north of Interstate 80.
The National Weather Service notes that 6-10 day outlooks indicate probability trends rather than specific storm totals. Residents should monitor updated forecasts as the period approaches for refined timing and accumulation estimates.
