Illinois begins the morning under biting cold as light snow swirls through Chicago streets and wind cuts sharply between buildings. Breath hangs in the air, and exposed skin stings within minutes.
National Weather Service data shows a limited excessive cold risk across the Chicago metro early today. Wind chills have dropped as low as 10 degrees below zero, driven by northwest winds gusting near 30 mph. Scattered snow showers linger through the early hours, leaving light coatings on untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges.
Across Chicago, Cicero, Evanston, and along I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive, commuters should expect slick patches and reduced visibility at times. Even brief snow bursts can freeze quickly on pavement. Dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and allow extra travel time this morning. To be fair, conditions improve later, but the cold remains unforgiving.
As the day progresses, clouds thin and sunshine returns. Temperatures slowly climb into the mid-20s, though it still feels colder with the wind. Tonight turns quieter, with clearing skies and lows near the lower 20s.
Saturday brings a noticeable change. Sunshine dominates, and highs rise toward 40 degrees as winds shift southwest. Snow is not expected, and travel conditions improve steadily. Sunday cools slightly, with highs near the upper 20s, but stays dry.
Looking ahead, meteorologists are watching a gradual warm-up into Christmas travel week. Temperatures trend upward early next week, reaching near 40 Monday and into the 40s by midweek. A rain chance appears by Wednesday, while snow remains uncertain. Models hint at a milder Christmas Day, though winter patterns can shift quickly.
For now, caution rules the morning. Watch for icy spots, limit time outdoors early, and prepare for rapid temperature swings this weekend. Traveling soon for the holidays? How cold did it feel where you are?
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
Saturday: Partly sunny, breezy, high near 40
Sunday: Sunny, colder, high near 28
Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 39
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 44
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, chance of rain, high near 47
