Late Week Warmup Will Be Followed by Another Bitter Blast This Weekend
Chicago Weather Update
Chicagoland residents can expect scattered snow tonight as a weak weather system moves through the area. While most locations will only see a light dusting, slick travel conditions could develop overnight as temperatures hover in the teens and rise slightly to the lower 20s by morning.
Chicago Forecast
What’s Next?
Thursday will bring mostly cloudy skies, with the possibility of patchy freezing drizzle or light snow showers in the morning. Highs will reach the mid-30s during the afternoon as a brief warm-up begins. The warmer trend will continue Friday, with temperatures climbing into the upper 30s to near 40 degrees. However, a storm system arriving Friday night will bring a mix of rain and snow to the region before a cold front ushers in a dramatic temperature drop for the weekend.
Why You Should Care
With snow and freezing drizzle possible tonight and early Thursday, travel conditions may be hazardous. The brief warm-up Friday will bring some relief, but the significant drop in temperatures over the weekend and into next week will require preparation for extreme cold. Residents should take precautions to protect themselves and their homes from the dangerously low temperatures expected early next week.
Timeline
- Tonight: Scattered snow and cold temperatures in the teens.
- Thursday: Mostly cloudy with morning snow showers or freezing drizzle; highs in the mid-30s.
- Friday: Warmer, with highs near 40, followed by rain and snow Friday night.
- Saturday: Falling temperatures from the 20s to the teens, with possible morning snow showers.
- Sunday: Bitterly cold with single-digit highs and partly cloudy skies.
- Monday and Tuesday: Arctic air takes hold, with subzero lows Monday morning and highs barely reaching single digits.
Conclusions and FAQs
Q: What can I expect this week?
A: Scattered snow and cold temperatures tonight, with a brief warm-up on Friday and a significant drop in temperatures over the weekend and into next week.
Q: How should I prepare for the extreme cold?
A: Take precautions to protect yourself and your home, including dressing warmly, using caution when walking on icy sidewalks, and insulating your home to prevent pipes from freezing.
Q: What should I do if I need to travel during the cold snap?
A: Check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, and consider adjusting your plans if necessary. Make sure to pack warm clothing and plan for extra time to get where you need to go.
Q: How can I stay warm and safe during the cold snap?
A: Check in on vulnerable neighbors and friends, and consider reaching out to those who may be at higher risk during extreme cold snaps. Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and road conditions, and take steps to ensure your home is well-insulated and safe from the cold.
