Chicago, IL – Northern Illinois residents are bracing for an early taste of winter this weekend as rain transitions to snow and temperatures tumble across the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued alerts for a sharp cold front moving through the state, promising a weekend marked by brisk winds, flurries, and a dramatic temperature drop.
The Weather Shift: From Rain to Early Snow
After a mild and rainy Friday, conditions in the Chicago area are expected to deteriorate quickly as a cold front sweeps across Illinois late Friday night. The NWS in Chicago warns that the incoming system will trigger a rain-to-snow changeover between late Saturday evening and early Sunday, especially in northern and western suburbs.
Meteorologists describe the setup as a classic early-November pattern shift, with cooler Canadian air meeting a departing warm, moist air mass over the Great Lakes.
“We’re seeing a strong northwest flow developing behind the front,” said an NWS forecaster Friday morning. “That’s going to drive the temperature drop and bring the potential for light snow, particularly north and west of the city.”
The first flakes could appear as early as Saturday night along Interstate 90 and Route 59, where surface temperatures will dip below freezing. Although accumulation is expected to remain light, the mix of rain, wind, and wet snowflakes could create slick conditions on elevated roads and bridges.
Friday’s Forecast: Rain and Falling Temperatures
Friday will remain unsettled with scattered light rain and highs near 61°F, according to the NWS. However, by evening, the cold front will begin its push through northern Illinois, sending temperatures plummeting into the mid-30s by Saturday morning.
Winds will increase steadily through the night, with gusts reaching 25 to 30 mph, making the air feel significantly colder. The sudden shift marks a dramatic departure from the recent stretch of mild autumn weather that had kept Chicago’s fall foliage lingering longer than usual.
Saturday’s Forecast: Blustery and Wet Conditions
Saturday will feel markedly different — a gray, chilly, and damp day that signals winter’s approach. Forecast highs hover near 43°F, with wind chills in the mid-30s throughout the day.
Showers will continue intermittently before transitioning into a wintry mix by nightfall. Areas north and west of downtown Chicago — including Elgin, Rockford, and Crystal Lake — are most likely to experience early snowflakes before midnight.
“It’s not a major snowstorm, but it’s definitely our first real taste of winter,” said an NWS meteorologist. “You’ll feel that wind and see some flakes flying by Saturday night.”
Sunday Outlook: Cold Winds and Possible Flurries
Sunday keeps the winter preview going, as cold northwest winds dominate. Highs will struggle to reach the upper 30s, and wind chills will make it feel closer to freezing.
Lingering flurries or snow showers are possible early in the day before drier air moves in. Wind gusts up to 25 mph could make the day feel raw and blustery — a true reminder that November has arrived.
Drivers heading out Sunday morning are advised to use caution, as wet and icy spots may develop in shaded or elevated areas. The cold air mass will also stick around through the start of the new week.
Looking Ahead: Cold Start to Next Week
Monday will bring partial sunshine but little relief from the cold, with daytime highs in the mid-30s and overnight lows dipping into the 20s. The chill is expected to linger through Veterans Day, as another reinforcing cold front moves into the region, locking Chicago in a winterlike pattern through midweek.
“This weekend will be a wake-up call,” meteorologists said. “After this, it’s time to start thinking about winter coats, gloves, and maybe even that first scraping of ice on the windshield.”
Conclusion
With rain turning to snow, gusty winds, and subfreezing wind chills, this weekend marks Chicago’s first brush with winter for the 2025 season. While no major accumulation is expected, the sudden chill and blustery conditions will make it clear — fall’s mild spell is ending, and winter is knocking early.
What are your thoughts on Chicago’s sudden winter preview? Are you ready for the cold? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
