Chilly rain and snow hit Chicago, but is it just the beginning?

On January 1, 2025, Chicago experienced significantly colder temperatures, marking the first day of the new year with below-freezing highs. During this day, the temperature reached a high of only 29 degrees Fahrenheit, accompanied by chilly northwest winds. Residents could potentially expect sporadic flurries throughout the day, but any snowfall accumulated will likely stay under two inches. As the week progresses, temperatures are set to dip even lower, reaching into the middle 20s, with nighttime lows forecasted to fall into the teens. This marks the beginning of a cold weather pattern for the region as it heads into the first week of January. In the days that follow, weather systems are anticipated to bring new opportunities for snowfall. Notably, a winter weather system developing on Thursday afternoon is expected to bring additional snow, particularly for areas south of Interstate 80. Accumulation during this event might not exceed an inch in Chicago, but higher amounts are plausible in more southern areas, which may face more challenging travel conditions as a result of the weather. The potential for accumulating snow, still provides significant concerns for residents and commuters alike, heading into the weekend. Moreover, the weather pattern involves not just light snow but also substandard temperatures that are significantly below average for early January. Weather forecasts suggest that this frigid temperature trend will persist through the mid-January period, leading to continued winter conditions and cold wind chills across the area. Residents are reminded to take necessary precautions, especially during outdoor activities, as cold temperatures combined with strong winds can lead to a higher risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Finally, this weather event in Chicago comes on the heels of a holiday week filled with variable weather conditions. Just before New Year's Day, the city was characterized by rain and wet conditions, with some snow flurries being reported as systems passed through. Therefore, the transition from relatively milder weather to intense cold and snow has created a dramatic shift for Chicagoans just as they welcome the new year. Expectations of cold continue, and additional snow events are anticipated as they progress through January, presenting a rugged start for anyone traveling in and around the Chicago area.