Season’s First Snowflakes Expected Overnight Sunday into Monday
A weather front moving into the region, mostly bringing rain, may deliver the season’s first snowflakes as temperatures dip into the 30s, according to weather officials.
“It’s not a big deal,” said Birk. “But there might be slushy grass and walkways with less than an inch of flakes.”
Temperatures are projected to climb into the upper 50s on Thursday, with showers and possible thunderstorms late at night, continuing into Friday. On Saturday afternoon, rain is expected with cloudy skies and highs near 50 degrees. Before 3 a.m. Sunday, temperatures could fall to about 35 degrees, creating a mix of rain and snow. Precipitation chances on Saturday reach 90%, officials said.
At O’Hare and Midway airports, current conditions are partly cloudy and 55 degrees. Winds are blowing at 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph possible overnight Thursday. The National Weather Service reports that showers and isolated thunderstorms are possible between midnight and 3 a.m.
Forecasters expect winds to strengthen overnight, when the likelihood of showers remains at 90%. Lake-effect snow may develop from Sunday night through Monday night, with steady temperatures in the 30s.
Author’s Summary
The Chicago area may see its first light snow of the season by early Monday as a rain system and dropping temperatures mix, with minimal accumulation expected.