Chicago, Illinois – Chicago residents can expect a week of unseasonably mild temperatures and mostly cloudy skies, with occasional fog and light drizzle through the start of the week. Forecasters say the warmer-than-average conditions are well above typical early January highs, offering a brief reprieve from winter’s chill.
Monday: Mild Start With Fog
Monday will begin under mostly cloudy skies, with highs reaching near 43 degrees. Forecasters warn that patchy fog may develop during the morning hours, potentially reducing visibility on roadways. Light drizzle is also possible at times, though no significant accumulation is expected. Residents should exercise caution during early morning commutes.
Tuesday and Wednesday: Temperatures Continue to Climb
Mild conditions will continue through Tuesday and Wednesday, with highs climbing to approximately 45 degrees on Tuesday and 48 degrees on Wednesday. Cloudy skies will dominate, with intermittent periods of light rain or drizzle possible. These temperatures are notably above the average highs for early January, typically around 30 to 31 degrees, making this week a relatively warm start to the month.
Thursday and Friday: Rain and Possible Snow
By Thursday into Friday, a new weather system is expected to move into the region, bringing rain showers and a chance for some snowfall as temperatures gradually cool. Forecast models indicate that precipitation may start as rain before transitioning to wet snow, though the exact timing and amounts remain uncertain. Residents should monitor updates for potential impacts on travel and outdoor activities.
Weekend Outlook: Cooler Temperatures
Saturday is expected to be cooler, with highs near 37 degrees and mostly cloudy skies. While no significant snowfall is anticipated, temperatures will feel noticeably chillier compared to midweek. Sunday should bring a sunnier outlook with highs around 32 degrees, marking a return to more typical early January conditions.
Above-Average Temperatures for the Week
Meteorologists note that temperatures could approach the 50s later in the week, an unusual warm spell for this time of year in Chicago. The combination of mild air and occasional precipitation makes this week stand out as one of the warmer periods of early January in recent years.
While residents may enjoy the milder weather, forecasters caution that winter conditions are not over, and periods of rain or light snow could still affect roadways and travel later in the week.
Are you taking advantage of Chicago’s unseasonably mild weather, or are you preparing for the rain and potential snow later in the week? How are you adjusting your commute or weekend plans in response to the changing conditions?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments to help the community navigate winter weather safely in Chicago.
