Unseasonable Warmth Hits Chicago, Temperatures Reach 60 Degrees Before Cool Down
A Near-Record High
Despite strong winds of 45 to 50 mph, temperatures in the Chicago area reached a near-record high on Friday. Temperatures at Midway Airport reached 60 degrees, while 57 degrees was recorded at O’Hare, the National Weather Service said. Friday’s high temps were just shy of the record high of 62 degrees set in 2016.
Average Temperatures Well Above Normal
The average high for Feb. 28 is 40.5 degrees, and the average low is 26.1. This means that Friday’s temperatures were significantly above the expected average.
Wind Advisory Issued
Weather officials issued a wind advisory until 9 p.m. Friday as wind gusts up to 50 mph were expected to move through the area. Drivers are advised to use caution in the evening, and the weather service also recommends that people secure lightweight outdoor furniture and decorations and avoid activities that could cause open flames or sparks, such as parking on grass and improperly disposing of smoking materials.
Temperature Drop Expected
Despite the unseasonably high temps, temperatures dropped significantly by Friday evening. Scattered showers and even a few flurries were also possible in the evening.
Cooler Weather Ahead
Cooler weather will stick around over the weekend. On Saturday, temperatures are expected to reach the low 30s before plunging to the high teens at night. Sunday’s temperatures are predicted to hover in the high 30s during the day and drop to the high 20s at night.
Return of Milder Weather
Monday will see the return of milder weather, with highs predicted to hit the low to mid-40s but with a chance of rain or snow showers.
Twitter Update
It will remain windy through this evening before winds gradually subside overnight. Isolated-scattered light snow showers/flurries may be seen in some locations tonight as well. Quiet, cooler conditions expected over the weekend before the next system mid-next week. #ILwx #INwx
Conclusion
Friday’s unseasonable warmth in Chicago was a brief respite from the typical February weather, but the region can expect a return to cooler temperatures over the weekend and into next week.
FAQs
Q: What was the high temperature in Chicago on Friday?
A: 60 degrees at Midway Airport and 57 degrees at O’Hare.
Q: Is this a record high temperature?
A: No, it’s just shy of the record high of 62 degrees set in 2016.
Q: What’s the average high and low temperature for February 28?
A: The average high is 40.5 degrees, and the average low is 26.1.
