Major Cold Front to Hit Illinois and Midwest, Sending Temperatures Into the Teens to Start December
ILLINOIS — A strong cold front is poised to sweep through the Midwest, bringing a frigid start to December across Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, with morning lows expected to drop into the teens — and even single digits in some areas.
According to updated temperature projections, early December mornings could begin near or below 10°F in much of the central U.S., particularly across Nebraska, western Kansas, and eastern Colorado, where readings may plunge below zero.
Deep Freeze Incoming Across the Midwest
The new forecast indicates that by December 2, actual temperatures at 6 a.m. could range from -5°F in central Kansas to around 15°F in central Illinois.
Meteorologists note that the system will not be as severe as previously predicted for Thanksgiving week, but temperatures will still sit 8–12 degrees below seasonal norms.
“This setup has the potential to deliver one of the coldest starts to December we’ve seen in recent years,” said forecasters monitoring the model data.
What to Expect in Illinois and Surrounding States
- Illinois: Lows in the upper teens to low 20s; wind chills dipping to single digits.
- Iowa and Nebraska: Subzero morning temperatures likely, especially in rural regions.
- Oklahoma and northern Texas: Temperatures in the low 20s with risk of frost and freezing rain in parts of the Panhandle.
The cold air mass will follow a pattern of alternating warmth and chill that’s dominated late November. Meteorologists caution residents to prepare for icy conditions on roads and elevated frost risk for early commutes.
Early December Outlook
While this front marks a noticeable chill, it’s not the start of a long-term deep freeze just yet. Warmer air is expected to briefly return by mid-December, creating the “weather seesaw” effect that forecasters say will continue into winter.
Residents across Illinois and nearby states are encouraged to monitor forecasts closely for potential wind chill advisories as temperatures drop further next week.
Stay informed with the latest Midwest weather updates at NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.