Illinois wakes under a low winter sky.
Cold pavement, stiff air, and muted traffic sounds set the tone early.
Temperatures hover near 25 degrees across Chicago this morning, with wind chills dipping into the teens. A light southeast breeze keeps the cold biting, especially along exposed streets and elevated platforms. Sidewalks remain mostly dry, but refreezing continues in shaded areas.
Clouds dominate early, though filtered sunshine breaks through later. Afternoon highs reach the upper 30s, offering modest relief. It still feels like February, and winter coats remain essential for commuters and walkers.
Tonight stays mostly cloudy as temperatures hold in the low 30s. A subtle wind shift sets the stage for change. By Tuesday, conditions brighten briefly, with highs climbing to around 42 degrees. Gusty west-northwest winds develop, with gusts nearing 30 mph, making it feel cooler than the numbers suggest. Secure loose items and allow extra time for high-profile travel.
Attention then turns to Wednesday, when colder air slides back in. Highs fall into the mid-30s, and skies trend mostly sunny. The back-and-forth pattern continues, a familiar February rhythm across the Midwest.
Late week remains quiet but chilly. Thursday holds near 35 degrees, with clouds lingering. By Friday, temperatures rebound slightly, approaching the upper 30s again.
Looking toward the weekend, a rain-and-snow mix becomes possible. While no accumulation is guaranteed, temperatures near freezing raise concerns for slick roads if precipitation develops. This is the time of year when melting during the day refreezes after sunset.
Longer-range signals into early next week suggest gradual warming, tied to a broader thaw across the Great Lakes, even as much of Lake Erie remains frozen.
5-Day Outlook – Chicago, IL
- Today: Partly sunny, high 37
- Tuesday: Breezy, partly sunny, high 42
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 36
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy, high 35
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 38
