Illinois greets this Monday with gray skies hanging low over the city, damp pavement reflecting streetlights as commuters head out early. The air feels raw, not frigid, but moisture is already creeping into the picture as winter takes a softer, wetter turn.
Temperatures sit near 33 degrees early, with cloud cover locking in the chill. A few light sprinkles may develop later today, especially during the afternoon. While impacts remain minor, wet roads combined with cool air can still catch drivers off guard.
By tonight and into Tuesday, conditions turn quieter. Skies break at times, allowing temperatures to climb into the mid-40s Tuesday afternoon. That brief dry window offers a break for errands and travel before the next system approaches.
Attention shifts to Wednesday. Meteorologists are tracking a developing system that brings increasing chances for showers across northeastern Illinois. Highs hover near the low 40s, keeping precipitation mostly rain. However, patchy fog and drizzle may reduce visibility, especially near Lake Michigan and along major corridors like I-90, I-94, and I-55.
Wednesday night into Christmas Eve looks unsettled. Periods of drizzle and light rain continue, with fog lingering in spots. While snow is not expected in the city, colder surfaces early in the day could still feel slick. Drivers should slow down and leave extra space during evening travel.
Christmas Day remains cloudy but mild, with highs near 45. Patchy drizzle fades at times, making holiday travel manageable but damp. The bigger concern remains visibility, not ice.
This first week of winter delivers more umbrellas than snow boots for Chicago. Still, winter hazards come in many forms, especially wet roads and fog.
Heading out for holiday travel this week? Share what conditions look like in your part of the city.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, slight chance of sprinkles, high near 42
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 46
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, chance of showers, high near 41
- Christmas Day: Cloudy with patchy drizzle, high near 45
- Thursday: Chance of showers, high near 49
