Chicago Weather: After Light Precipitation, Cloudy and Cold Conditions Tonight
**Current Forecast**
Fox 32 Meteorologist Mike Caplan is here to give you an update on the latest forecast for December 18, 2024.
As the narrow swath of snow that deposited nearly 2 inches of snow in the Rockford area starts to break apart, minimal travel impacts are expected this morning. Pavement will remain wet and not icy. The rest of the day will be mainly cloudy and breezy, with temperatures reaching the mid-30s.
**Tonight**
Tonight will be seasonally cold, with lows plummeting to the 20s.
**Upcoming Weather System**
The next system is on its way, with possible impacts projected for late Thursday into Friday morning. This will likely be a light snow producer, but there is a significant amount of uncertainty around the track of the storm system. Some models show the Clipper system affecting the area, while others predict it will pass farther north, with little or no impact on the area.
Currently, our preferred scenario is for light snow with a small chance of lake enhancement. However, this will not be a major winter storm. We expect highs in the mid-30s under partly cloudy skies over the weekend.
**Looking Ahead to the Week**
Monday holds the potential for a mix of precipitation as a significant warming trend begins to kick in for the final week of December. Christmas Eve is expected to be dry, with highs in the low 40s before even warmer temperatures arrive for Christmas Day.
**Summary**
In summary, it’s going to be cloudy and cold tonight, followed by a chance of snow and lake enhancement late in the week. While temperatures will rise, we may see a mix of precipitation on Monday before a drying trend sets in for the holiday season.
**FAQs**
Q: Is the snow expected to make travel difficult?
A: Minimal travel impacts are expected this morning, with the snow already breaking apart. Pavement will remain wet and not icy.
Q: Will the weekend bring more snow?
A: No, the weekend looks mostly dry with highs in the mid-30s under partly cloudy skies.
Q: What about temperatures in the coming days?
A: Temperatures are expected to rise, reaching the low 40s on Christmas Eve before warm air arrives for Christmas Day.
Q: Is a major winter storm on its way?
A: Not according to current forecast scenarios, which predict light snow and lake enhancement. However, there is always room for change, so be sure to stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecast.
