Chicagoans have been bundling up against some brutal winter weather, with temperatures dropping deep into the teens and wind chills making it feel even worse. But after a stretch of icy conditions, relief is finally on the way. A much-needed warm-up is expected to roll in over the next few days, bringing above-freezing temperatures for the first time in a while. However, this change in weather comes with a new set of risks—from melting snow and icy sidewalks to the possibility of another cold snap later in the week.
Current Conditions: The Last Stretch of the Deep Freeze
As of Saturday morning, Chicago is waking up to frigid but clear conditions, with temperatures hovering around 18°F (-8°C). The past several days have been bitterly cold, with wind chills making it feel even worse. But today, a slow warm-up will begin, with afternoon highs reaching 34°F (1°C)—still chilly but a noticeable improvement from the brutal cold earlier this week.
By tonight, temperatures will drop to 26°F (-3°C), and while that’s still below freezing, it’s warmer than what we’ve been dealing with recently.
Weekend Forecast: A Gradual Warm-Up Begins
The good news? Temperatures will continue to rise through the weekend. The bad news? Melting snow and ice could create hazardous conditions on sidewalks and roads, especially overnight when refreezing occurs.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny with a high of 34°F (1°C) and a nighttime low of 26°F (-3°C). A slight breeze will make it feel cooler, but overall, it’s a more tolerable day compared to earlier in the week.
- Sunday: A big temperature jump is on the way! Expect a mix of sun and clouds with highs reaching 40°F (4°C). While this is still chilly by normal standards, it’ll feel almost springlike compared to the deep freeze we’ve been stuck in. Overnight temperatures will hover around 34°F (1°C).
Next Week: Unstable Weather Ahead
The workweek will bring even warmer conditions but also the potential for messy weather, including rain and even some snow later in the week.
- Monday: A mostly cloudy but mild day, with highs near 45°F (7°C) and lows around 36°F (2°C). Melting snow could cause slick sidewalks and puddles on the roads.
- Tuesday: The warmest day of the week! Highs will reach 44°F (7°C) with a mix of sun and clouds. Nighttime lows will drop to 33°F (0°C), increasing the risk of overnight refreezing.
- Wednesday: A messy day ahead as clouds roll in and light rain showers move through the area. Expect highs of 46°F (8°C) and nighttime lows near 33°F (0°C). Any lingering moisture could freeze overnight, making for slippery conditions early Thursday.
- Thursday: A drop in temperatures will bring a mix of rain and snow showers. Highs will reach 37°F (3°C), but cold air moving in later could cause roads and sidewalks to ice over again.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy and chilly again, with highs around 37°F (3°C) and lows dipping to 31°F (-1°C).
Why Is Chicago Warming Up So Quickly?
The rapid change in temperatures is due to a shift in the jet stream, which is pushing out the arctic air mass that kept Chicago in the deep freeze. As warmer air moves in from the southwest, we’ll see temperatures climb above freezing for several days.
However, this pattern is temporary. By the end of the week, another cold front could bring freezing temperatures and even some snow back into the forecast. This up-and-down weather is classic for Chicago in late winter, making it essential to stay prepared for anything.
How to Stay Safe in the Changing Weather
- Watch Out for Slippery Sidewalks: Melting snow during the day will refreeze at night, creating invisible ice patches on sidewalks and roads. Walk carefully and drive with caution.
- Be Prepared for Puddles: Warmer temperatures will create large puddles on streets and sidewalks, making for a wet and messy commute. Waterproof shoes are a good idea.
- Don’t Put Away the Winter Gear Yet: While temperatures are warming up, another cold snap is possible later in the week. Keep coats, gloves, and hats on hand.
- Stay Updated on the Forecast: The week will bring a mix of rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures. Stay tuned for updates, especially later in the week when conditions could turn icy again.
Bottom Line: Chicago’s Weather Is About to Change—But Stay Prepared
Chicago’s deep freeze is finally coming to an end, but don’t get too excited just yet. Milder temperatures will bring their own challenges, from icy sidewalks to the potential for rain and snow by the end of the week.
