CHICAGO, Ill. – After a stretch of mild November air, a sharp fall transition looms for northern Illinois this weekend, with rain changing to snow and a plunge in temperatures by late Sunday into Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, rain showers will taper early Friday, giving way to a breezy and seasonably warm day with highs reaching the mid-60s. A stronger storm system arrives late Saturday, spreading rain across much of the region and gradually mixing with or changing to wet snow north and west of I-55 overnight.
By Sunday, a true winter-like air mass takes hold, driving temperatures into the 30s with wind chills in the teens and 20s. Many communities near and northwest of Chicago could see their first snowflakes of the season, while localized lake-effect bands may bring minor accumulations near Lake Michigan into Monday morning.
Road conditions could turn slick late Sunday night, especially for early commuters and those traveling along I-80 and I-94. The National Weather Service advises drivers to slow down on wet or slushy pavement and to plan extra time for Monday morning travel. Residents are urged to dress in layers, protect sensitive plants and pets, and charge devices in case of weather-related power interruptions.
The cold air pattern looks to linger into early next week, with highs struggling to reach the 40s even under clearing skies Tuesday.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL:
Thu: 44/50 – Isolated showers; breezy and mild evening.
Fri: 60/45 – Breezy, mild; stray shower early north of I-80.
Sat: 55/35 – Rain late day; turning colder overnight.
Sun: 38/30 – Blustery; rain mixing with snow, first flakes possible.
Mon: 39/31 – Snow showers near lake; windy, wintry chill continues.
