Chicago started Friday under cloudy skies near 54 degrees, but the calm-looking forecast is about to turn blustery. Scattered rain showers are expected from late morning into the afternoon, while temperatures slip through the day and northwest winds make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
Afternoon Showers Arrive With Strong Winds
Rain chances increase after 11 a.m., with the best odds during the afternoon and a roughly 50% chance of precipitation overall. Northwest winds will run 15 to 30 mph, with stronger gusts possible in exposed areas and near the lake; the temperature is expected to fall toward the upper 40s or low 50s by afternoon, according to the National Weather Service Chicago.
A brief shower chance may linger Friday evening before skies gradually clear. The combination of wind and damp pavement could make the evening commute uncomfortable, especially for pedestrians, cyclists and anyone navigating open lakefront areas.
Cold Night Gives Way To Weekend Sunshine
Friday night will be cloudy early in the evening, then gradually clear, with a low around 42 degrees, making it the coldest night of the season so far for much of the region. A significant frost and limited freeze risk is expected mainly in Illinois, while Chicago itself is forecast to remain around 42; the broader weather setup is a sharper cooldown than the warmer conditions outlined in Hoodline's earlier forecast.
Saturday brings a reset with sunny skies and a high near 55, followed by a clear night around 42. Sunday should reach about 60, and the warming trend continues early next week with highs in the mid-60s and a shot at 70 by Thursday.
