Chicago is experiencing a brief period of unusually warm weather, with temperatures reaching record highs for February. On Monday, the city recorded a high of 65 degrees, making it the warmest Feb. 16 on record. The warm spell has led to increased outdoor activity and long lines at car washes.
Brett Borchart, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, described this as Chicago’s first “fake spring” of the year. “I like that term,” Borchart said. “It’s typical to have a period of warmer temperatures in January or February. This year it’s just more pronounced.”
Wednesday is expected to remain warm, with high temperatures possibly reaching 60 degrees and windy conditions throughout the day. “It’s a great day to be outside and get some fresh air, crack windows open,” Borchart said. “These are borrowed days.”
Thursday could also see highs near 60 degrees, but strong winds may cause temperatures along Lake Michigan to fall into the mid-40s.
According to Borchart, Friday will mark the start of a return to winter-like conditions, with high temperatures in the mid-40s and continued strong winds making it feel colder.
Over the weekend, temperatures are forecasted to drop further into the 30s during the day and could reach the 20s at night.
Looking ahead to Monday, Borchart noted there may be a slight warming trend but cautioned against expecting another period of unseasonably warm weather. “It’s not going to be another fake spring,” he said.
