Earlier this week, the Chicago area experienced two 80-degree days. Does this mean it’s time to put away those heavy winter coats once and for all?
It’s complicated, said NBC 5 meteorologist Kevin Jeanes.
“April is a pretty fun time of year,” Jeanes said. “We have warm days and winter days.”
The last average snowfall of the season in Chicago occurs on April 20, Jeanes said. But that day is also when the city typically experiences its first 80-degree day, Jeanes said.
The average last frost for the Chicago area occurs during the last week of April, Jeanes said. In 2023, the last frost was on April 26. The last recorded frost was on May 25, 1992, Jeanes added.
“I think it’s safe to say you can put away the big coats, but keep one in the downstairs closet so you can collect it for the morning,” Jeanes said.
This morning could happen this weekend.
“Following a period of warm spring weather, unseasonably cooler conditions will move into the region to close out the week,” the National Weather Service said.
While temperatures Thursday will see a wide variation – with 50° in the north and 60° in the south – a passing cold front is expected to lead to even cooler temperatures in the region Friday through Sunday.
Early Sunday morning, those temperatures could drop to 32 degrees or near zero, NBC 5 meteorologist Alicia Roman said.
“That’s why we say don’t plant your flowers until after Mother’s Day,” Roman said, about the risk of frost formation.
According to Roman, the cold front moving through the area is also expected to bring rain – again.
“Half the days in April so far have had rain,” Roman said, adding that the Chicago area has received about 1.94 inches of rain this month. On average, Chicago typically receives 3.75 inches of rain in April.
Thursday morning started out cool and dry, with temperatures in the 40s. However, clouds and rain were on the way, Roman said.
Showers were expected around 10 a.m. in the north and west, with intermittent rain throughout the day. Between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., heavier rain was expected across the region, with the potential for rumbling thunder, Roman said.
“Unfortunately, just in time for the evening commute,” Roman said.
According to the NWS, the chance of thunderstorms is highest south of I-80.
Around 9 p.m., showers are expected to move into northwest Indiana before leaving the area completely, Roman added.
Friday should be brighter but cooler, Roman said, with temperatures in the mid-50s. Temperatures are expected to be colder through the weekend, with a cold front bringing below-average temperatures, low to average, Saturday and Sunday. Overnight, temperatures could drop even further, Roman said.
“Cold and/or frost at night could damage plants,” the NWS said.
NBC Chicago
