Chicago, Illinois — Chicagoans wrapped up another gray day as temperatures hovered in the 40s, matching what’s typical for this point in November. Light drizzle drifted through parts of the metro area Thursday, creating damp streets and a chilly feel.
Forecasters expect the misty weather to fade by tonight, with temperatures dipping only slightly into the low to mid-40s.
Friday Brings Spotty Rain Near and South of I-80
A passing storm system is set to influence the region on Friday, bringing a chance for scattered rain showers, especially for communities near and south of I-80. While any rain should stay light and scattered, the day won’t be known for sunshine — mostly cloudy skies will dominate.
Afternoon highs will reach the upper 40s to around 50 degrees, keeping conditions cool but mild for mid-November.
Weekend Turns Mild With Sunshine Returning
After several days of gloom, the city finally gets a break. Here are the highlights –
Saturday
Skies will gradually shift to partly cloudy, and temperatures will hold near 50 degrees, making it a pleasant day for outdoor errands or some early holiday shopping.
Sunday
Weather perfection arrives just in time for the Chicago Bears game. Kickoff at Soldier Field is at noon, and fans can expect sunny skies with temperatures landing in the mid-50s. It will feel more like early fall than late November — ideal conditions for tailgating, long walks, or simply soaking up some overdue sunshine.
Early Week: Mild Temps Continue, Clouds Increase
The warmer trend holds into the new week:
- Monday: Expect a mix of partly cloudy skies through much of the day before increasing clouds and possibly a few evening showers. Highs stay in the mid-50s.
- Tuesday: Lingering rain chances remain during the morning and midday. Temperatures again hover in the mid-50s, continuing the mild pattern.
Despite being one of the busiest travel weeks of the year, weather should stay cooperative through midweek.
Thanksgiving Week Cool-Down Arrives
Travelers heading out on Wednesday should encounter no major weather-related issues. The forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies and daytime temperatures in the low 40s, which is noticeably cooler than earlier in the week but still manageable for travel.
By Thanksgiving Day, a sharper cool-down arrives. Highs drop into the 30s, and skies turn partly cloudy, giving the holiday a crisp, classic late-autumn feel. While cold, the day should be dry — great for those planning turkey trots, family visits, or settling in for a long holiday meal.
What This Means for Chicagoans
The pattern tells a familiar November story: brief warmth, moments of sunshine, and a plunge back into seasonal chill right in time for the holiday. After the weekend’s mild stretch, residents will want to prep for a noticeable shift back to colder, Thanksgiving-ready weather.
Are you rooting for cold holiday vibes, or do you prefer the milder stretch we’re seeing now? Drop your thoughts in the comments — what’s your ideal Thanksgiving forecast?
