Winter Weather System Bringing Rain-Snow Mix to Chicago Area
A wintry weather system is expected to bring a rain-snow mix to the Chicago area, potentially leading to minor snow accumulations and slushy road conditions on Friday. According to the NBC 5 Storm Team, the system will not be a significant one, and by evening, it will be gone.
When to Expect the Snow
Light snow is expected to move into the Chicago area around 7 a.m. on Friday, continuing through 12 p.m. Areas to the south are likely to see a rain-snow mix, while temperatures in the low-to-mid 30s will keep snow in the forecast for areas to the north and west.
Southern and Western Suburbs to See Rain-Snow Mix
LaSalle, Grundy, and Kankakee are expected to see a rain-snow mix, with temperatures on the warmer side.
Northern and Western Suburbs to See More Snow
In the afternoon, a narrow snow band is expected to set up, bringing more snow along the Illinois-Wisconsin state line in Lake and McHenry counties. This could lead to around an inch or more of snow in these areas, with most areas seeing less than that.
Potential for Slushy Conditions
The slush and snow could lead to potentially "sloppy" conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
When Will the System Wind Down?
By 5 p.m., the system will begin to wind down, with the weather expected to move completely out by 7 p.m.
When is the Last Measurable Snowfall Typically Seen?
According to NBC 5 Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes, the last measurable snowfall in 2024 came on March 22, while in 2023, it came on April 22. On average, the final measurable snowfall of the season typically comes on April 2.
Weekend Weather Outlook
As the winter weather moves out, more spring-like conditions will move in. Saturday looks great, with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-40s, while Sunday will be warmer, with highs in the 50s, and 60-degree days by next week. Above-average temperatures are expected for all of next week, as the calendar approaches St. Patrick’s Day.
Tweet from NWS Chicago
Rain and snow is expected today, especially north of I-80. Rain/snow mix may change to all snow for a time (mainly in the area in orange on the map), which could allow for some localized slushy snow accumulations. Little or no accumulations expected most areas. #ILwx #INwx
Tweet from NWS Chicago (2)
After some sloppy weather today, the weekend looks dry with a warming trend. By Monday, it should be sunny and very mild! Most areas will continue to be unseasonably mild Tuesday, though a lake enhanced cold front will send temps crashing near the lake. #ILwx #INwx
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the last measurable snowfall typically seen in the Chicago area?
A: According to NBC 5 Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes, the last measurable snowfall in 2024 came on March 22, while in 2023, it came on April 22. On average, the final measurable snowfall of the season typically comes on April 2.
Q: What is the weekend weather outlook looking like?
A: As the winter weather moves out, more spring-like conditions will move in. Saturday looks great, with sunshine and temperatures in the mid-40s, while Sunday will be warmer, with highs in the 50s, and 60-degree days by next week. Above-average temperatures are expected for all of next week, as the calendar approaches St. Patrick’s Day.
Q: When will the system wind down?
A: By 5 p.m., the system will begin to wind down, with the weather expected to move completely out by 7 p.m.
