Chicago weather today brings seasonally cool temperatures in the upper 40s with gusty winds and a 40% chance of rain showers developing this afternoon, so grab an umbrella before heading out to Wrigley Field or anywhere else around the city.
It’s a chilly start to Sunday morning across the Chicagoland area, with temperatures in the upper 30s right now. Mostly clear skies will cloud up through the morning as a shortwave disturbance moves in from the northwest—the same system that’s been bringing light rain to Minnesota and the Dakotas. The National Weather Service Chicago office expects this front to drag southward across our area between late morning and afternoon, bringing gusty winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts near 30 mph.
Here’s the timing: showers become most likely after noon CT, particularly between 2 PM and 5 PM CT. The meteorologists at the Weather Service note there’s some uncertainty about rainfall intensity—some computer models suggest mostly light sprinkles, while others hint at a few pockets of moderate rain. Either way, it’s nothing severe, but definitely pack that umbrella if you’re heading to brunch in Lincoln Park or catching the Cubs vs. Mets game at Wrigley Field today. Tailgating conditions will be breezy and cool; bring a light jacket.
If you’re planning outdoor activities around the city—say, a walk along the Lakefront Trail or golfing at one of the public courses—get out early (before noon CT) to beat the rain chances. The morning will be your window. Allergy sufferers should note that the gusty winds will kick up pollen counts; consider grabbing an allergy relief nasal spray before heading out, or wear a pollen count face mask if you’re sensitive. The afternoon rain should actually help clear some pollen from the air.
Tonight and Monday Morning: Frost Alert
After the rain clears before 8 PM CT tonight, temperatures will drop sharply to around 35°F. Here’s where it gets important: areas of frost are expected outside of Chicago and central Cook County late tonight into Monday morning. If you’ve planted tender seedlings or have spring flowers coming up in the suburbs—places like Evanston, Oak Park, or further out—cover them up or move potted plants indoors. Gardeners in the city proper should be okay, but everyone else in the metro area needs to be frost-aware.
Monday looks beautiful: sunny, highs near 46°F, and calm winds. Perfect for catching up on outdoor plans you miss today. The Cubs play the Phillies Monday through Wednesday, and Monday should offer the best weather of the series.
What to Eat Tonight
With the cool, breezy weather and afternoon rain, tonight’s the perfect time for a warm, comforting pasta dinner or a hearty stir-fry. Both are forgiving, versatile meals that work great for families. Did you know you can order groceries on Amazon? Get everything you need for tonight’s dinner delivered straight to your door—fresh pasta, vegetables, and sauce all ready to go.
Looking Ahead
Monday and Tuesday look fantastic. By Wednesday, another system may bring clouds back, but nothing significant. Spring is here, Chicago—just with typical April mood swings. Stay weather-aware!
