Chicago, Illinois — Chicagoans are getting a pleasant break from the recent stretch of gloomy weather, with a mild and bright weekend settling in before another round of rain and cooler temperatures arrives early next week.
After a late-week system drenched parts of the region, clearer skies, comfortable highs, and calmer winds look to make Saturday and Sunday two of the nicest days of November so far.
Late-Week Clouds Clear Out Across the Region
By Friday evening, lingering clouds stretched across much of Northeast Illinois, holding temperatures in the low- to mid-40s around the city. Areas closer to the Wisconsin state line dipped into the 30s, but a push of drier air and a light north wind helped begin the clearing process overnight.
Forecasters say that Chicago’s weather pattern is shifting just enough to give residents a window of brighter, warmer conditions before the atmosphere becomes active again next week.
Saturday: Sunshine Early, Clouds Later in the Day
Saturday will kick off on a bright and seasonably mild note. The morning hours are expected to feature mostly clear skies, offering excellent visibility for early errands, youth sports, or outdoor coffee runs.
By afternoon, the sky will turn partly cloudy, but temperatures will still land near 51 degrees, several degrees above normal for mid-November. Wind speeds will remain light, helping the day feel comfortable even as clouds build.
This mix of sun and mild temperatures provides a solid opportunity for Chicagoans to finish outdoor chores, prepare holiday decorations, or take in the changing fall scenery at the lakefront.
Sunday Brings More Sunshine and Slightly Warmer Temps
If Saturday feels pleasant, Sunday looks even better. With more sunshine in the forecast and temperatures climbing to around 53 degrees, the final day of the weekend will be the warmest and brightest of the stretch.
Light breezes and dry air will make it an excellent day for travel around the city, outdoor brunch, park visits, or early holiday shopping across busy corridors such as Michigan Avenue, State Street, and Lincoln Square.
Monday: Clouds Return Ahead of Widespread Rain
The shift toward a wetter pattern begins Monday as cloud cover increases across Cook County and surrounding suburbs. Temperatures will still hover in the upper-40s to low-50s, but humidity will build in the afternoon.
Rain is expected to arrive late Monday evening, with showers continuing into Tuesday morning—marking what forecasters consider the best chance for precipitation next week. This could affect morning commuters as well as travelers passing through O’Hare and Midway.
Midweek Cooling Brings a Taste of Winter
Following Tuesday’s rain, Chicago will transition toward a colder pattern. High temperatures will fall into the 40s on Wednesday before dropping further into the 30s by Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving morning is expected to feel especially cold, with brisk winds likely creating wind chills in the 20s for parade-goers and early-morning travelers. Those planning to attend large events or visit family should prepare for winter-like conditions.
Thanksgiving Preview: Chilly Air Locks In
While Thanksgiving Day looks dry, the temperature drop will be noticeable. Afternoon highs will struggle to reach the upper-30s, and clouds could periodically filter the sun. With many people spending extended periods outdoors — especially kids and elderly family members — warm layers, gloves, and winter coats will be essential.
Looking Ahead
Temperatures are likely to stay below average through the holiday weekend, setting up a chilly end to the month. Early December trends indicate a continued pattern of cooler-than-normal air, though long-range models hint at some moderation by mid-December.
Planning outdoor activities this weekend? Worried about Thanksgiving cold? Drop a comment below and tell us how this weather stretch is affecting your plans!
