Memories of Chicago’s mild winter are fading as the city slips ever deeper into unrelenting springtime chill. Sub-normal temperatures began nearly a month ago and now, with daytime readings projected to run 8-15º below normal through the upcoming week, there’s no apparent end to the ongoing and lengthy cold spell.
Computer models indicate that the jet stream, anchored to our south, remains in a position that favors the southward movement of cold air from northern and central Canada. That means continued, persistent cold weather for Chicago and the Midwest, as well as the Ohio Valley and the East.
A burst of light snow (such as the dusting Friday evening) has accompanied each new surge of cold air, and that scenario will dominate area weather this week. However, a stronger storm system, possibly with the ability to tap deeper moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, threatens the area with a significant rain/snow event this coming Friday and Saturday.
WGN-TV Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling and the WGN Weather Center staff provide daily coverage of weather in the Chicago area.
