CHICAGO – After several beautiful fall days with sunshine and above-average warmth, the Chicago area is preparing for a sharp change in weather conditions. Chief Meteorologist Emily Wahls from FOX 32 reports that a strong cold front will arrive late this week, bringing rain, gusty winds, and possibly the first snowflakes of the season.
Mild and Breezy Midweek Ahead
Chicago enjoyed another picture-perfect fall afternoon on Tuesday, with highs reaching the low to mid-60s under mostly sunny skies—about five to ten degrees above the seasonal average of 54°F for early November.
Tonight will remain mostly clear, mild, and breezy, with southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Overnight lows are expected to stay mild in the low 50s, keeping the city comfortably warm through early Wednesday morning.
Increasing Clouds and Rain Chances by Thursday
Wednesday will be partly cloudy and gusty, with temperatures in the upper 50s and wind gusts up to 35 mph out of the west-northwest. By Thursday, clouds will begin to thicken ahead of the incoming cold front.
“We’ll stay mild for one more day, but by Thursday night into Friday, rain will make its return,” said Chief Meteorologist Emily Wahls.
Rain showers are expected to develop late Thursday night and continue into Friday morning as the front moves through the Great Lakes region.
Friday Brings Rain and a Warm Finish
Friday will begin wet, but conditions are forecast to dry out through the afternoon. Temperatures will reach the low to mid-60s, offering a brief warm-up before the colder air arrives. Residents are encouraged to enjoy the mild conditions while they last — the weekend will bring a big drop in temperatures.
Sharp Weekend Cooldown with Possible Snow
Behind the cold front, temperatures will fall sharply. Saturday’s highs will struggle to reach 50°F, with scattered rain showers possible through the day. As colder air filters in, there’s a slight chance for rain to mix with snow, especially in the afternoon and evening hours.
By Sunday, highs will hover near 40°F, and Monday may only reach the upper 30s. Depending on wind direction, lake-effect snow showers could develop, particularly across Northwest Indiana and along the southern lakeshore.
Early Taste of Winter for the Windy City
This pattern marks Chicago’s first real taste of winter, with chilly mornings, brisk winds, and the possibility of snowflakes. While temperatures are expected to rebound slightly later next week, residents should prepare for freezing mornings and wind chills near the 20s early Monday.
Chicagoans are advised to secure outdoor decorations, check heating systems, and bundle up as the region transitions from mild fall weather to early winter chill.
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