If you’ve had enough of the frigid cold, good news is on the horizon! Light snow flurries are expected to move into the Chicago area tonight, but don’t worry—this isn’t a major storm. The bigger story is the warming trend that will start this weekend and stretch into next week, bringing temperatures well above freezing.
While the snow won’t cause major issues, Chicagoans should still watch out for slick roads and sidewalks overnight. Here’s what you need to know about the weekend weather shift and what to expect heading into Monday.
Flurries Expected Tonight—But No Big Accumulation
Snowflakes will start to fall this evening, creating a light dusting across the city. However, don’t expect much in terms of accumulation—less than an inch is expected in most areas.
That said, even a little bit of snow can make roads and sidewalks extra slippery, especially with temperatures hovering around the low 20s°F (-6°C to -4°C) overnight. If you’re out and about, drive carefully and watch your step!
A Weekend Warm-Up Begins
If you’re tired of the bitter cold, you’re in luck. After tonight’s flurries, temperatures will gradually climb over the weekend.
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, breezy in the afternoon, with a high around 30°F (-1°C).
- Sunday: Even warmer, reaching 38°F (3°C) with partly cloudy skies.
This might not seem like much, but after the deep freeze earlier this week, it’ll feel much more comfortable outside!
Monday Brings Even Milder Temperatures
By Monday, we’ll see even more improvement. Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 43°F (6°C)—a noticeable shift from the freezing days we’ve had. Clouds will stick around, but the warmer air will help melt any lingering snow and ice.
This mild trend looks to continue into early next week, giving us a break from the relentless cold.
How to Stay Safe in This Transition Weather
- Watch for Icy Spots: When walking or driving in the early morning, exercise caution as snow that melts throughout the day may refreeze at night.
- Wear layers because the weather in Chicago may change quickly, even though it’s getting milder. It’s still February!
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to forecasts in case the weather changes at the last minute