Chicago Weather: First Snowflakes Expected This Weekend
A developing storm system is moving toward Chicago, expected to bring light rain late tonight into early Friday morning. Meteorologist Emily Wahls reports that most areas will see no more than about a quarter inch of rainfall before conditions begin to dry out by sunrise.
Friday should feature mostly sunny to partly cloudy skies, with afternoon highs in the lower 60s. Westerly winds will increase, with gusts reaching around 30 mph. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the mild weather before colder air arrives.
Weekend Weather Shift
Saturday’s temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 40s to near 50 degrees. Rain will return by late morning or midday and continue through the afternoon into the evening. As temperatures drop later in the day, this rain could briefly transition to snow.
“Accumulations will be little to none, but grassy and elevated surfaces may see minor slushy buildup.”
Sunday and Monday will bring much colder air, with highs only in the 30s. Lake effect snow showers could develop on both days, though the exact placement of snow bands remains uncertain. The most likely area for activity appears to be Northwest Indiana, but parts of northeastern Illinois could also see occasional rain or snow if winds shift from the northeast.
Looking Ahead
By Tuesday and Wednesday, warmer air will gradually return to the region, bringing milder conditions after the chilly weekend.
Author’s Summary
A brief taste of winter arrives this weekend as rain gives way to the season’s first snowflakes, followed by a sharp but short-lived cold snap early next week.