Illinois – Sharp cold cuts through the air this morning as winter arrives with authority. Sidewalks crunch, car doors creak open slowly, and exposed skin feels the sting within seconds across northern Illinois.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, temperatures started the day near 22 degrees with wind chills in the teens. Northwest winds remain light, but the cold is enough to harden untreated pavement and create slick spots on bridges and ramps. Drivers should slow down during early errands and allow extra stopping distance.
Sunshine helps today, but the chill lingers. Highs only reach the lower 30s before clouds increase later. Tonight, temperatures dip into the upper 20s, setting the stage for another cold start before a notable pattern change begins. By Monday, southerly winds pull in milder air, lifting highs into the low 40s across the Chicago area.
That warming trend accelerates Tuesday. Afternoon temperatures climb into the mid-40s, melting remaining frost and snow piles. Wet pavement becomes more common as humidity rises, an early signal of midweek rain. While no snow is expected in the city, the rapid warm-up can still create travel issues as refreezing occurs after sunset.
By Wednesday, scattered showers develop, especially later in the day and into the evening. Roads may turn slick during heavier bursts, affecting travel on I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive. Showers may linger toward Christmas Day, keeping conditions gray and damp for holiday travelers.
Plan layers today, watch for icy patches this morning, and stay alert for changing road conditions midweek. Winter has arrived, but it’s already hinting at volatility. How cold did it feel in your neighborhood this morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL
- Today: Sunny and cold. High near 31.
- Monday: Cloudy, milder. High near 42.
- Tuesday: Partly sunny. High near 46.
- Wednesday: Cloudy with scattered showers. High near 43.
- Christmas Day: Cloudy. High near 47.
