Chicagoans may want to unpack their winter coats a little earlier this year as the city prepares for its first taste of snow. After a mild Friday with clouds giving way to sunshine and highs near 61 degrees, the National Weather Service warns that a sharp drop in temperatures and gusty winds will usher in a wintry change this weekend.
Westerly winds will blow between 10 and 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph throughout the day. By tonight, skies turn mostly cloudy, lows dip to around 43 degrees, and there’s a slight chance of rain.
Saturday brings a guaranteed dose of wet weather, with rain expected after 3 p.m. and measurable precipitation between a tenth and a quarter of an inch. As evening temperatures fall toward freezing, that rain could transition into the season’s first snow. While accumulation is expected to be minimal due to warm ground conditions, FOX 32 Chicago notes that a “slushy coating” remains possible across parts of the metro area.
Sunday looks even chillier, with highs struggling to reach the mid-30s and a 40% chance of snow, driven by strong northwesterly winds. More snow may arrive Sunday night into Monday, potentially affecting morning commutes.
By Veterans Day, temperatures will start to rebound slightly, reaching the mid-40s under mostly sunny skies, and continuing to climb into the low 50s later in the week.
As Chicago transitions from fall to its first brush with winter, residents are urged to stay tuned to local weather updates and plan for slick roads or brief travel delays. Whether or not the snow sticks, it’s a clear sign — winter is knocking on the Windy City’s door.
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