Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan Brace for Arctic Blast as Weekend Temperatures Plunge 25–30 Degrees Below Normal
ILLINOIS — A surge of Arctic air is gearing up to sweep across Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan this weekend, bringing the coldest temperatures of the season and pushing readings 25 to 30 degrees below normal. The icy plunge, forecast for Saturday, December 13, will grip much of the Midwest, Great Plains, and Great Lakes, marking a sharp shift from the mild start to December.
Midwest Set for Deep Freeze
The latest NWS Blend of Models shows that much of northern Illinois, southern Wisconsin, and central Michigan will remain locked below freezing throughout the weekend. Temperatures are projected to hover in the teens and low 20s, while overnight lows could dip even lower.
Weather analysts say this cold pattern is the result of a strong push of Arctic air descending from Canada, driven by a deep jet stream dip. “We’re looking at anomalies between -20°F and -27°F below average across key parts of the Midwest,” forecasters said, noting that Rockford, Madison, and Grand Rapids will likely experience the most intense chill.
Despite the sharp cold, meteorologists stress that the event, while powerful, is not record-breaking — rather, it’s a classic December Arctic front that ushers in the first major taste of winter for the region.
Western States Stay Unseasonably Warm
While the Midwest freezes, the Western U.S. will continue to experience a warm pattern, with California, Nevada, and Arizona running 10 to 20 degrees above average. Highs in the 60s and 70s are expected in many parts of the Southwest, thanks to a strong ridge pattern that’s deflecting cold air eastward.
This west–east contrast is shaping up to be one of the defining weather features of mid-December — bitter cold in the central states and mild, dry warmth out West.
South Holds Steady With Normal Temperatures
Across Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia, forecasters predict near-normal conditions, with only minor dips in temperature. While northern states shiver, the Gulf Coast and Southeast are expected to remain stable, avoiding the brunt of the Arctic front.
Meteorologists say Saturday morning will bring the lowest temperatures of the week for northern states, while southern regions maintain near-average December readings.
Cold Air Lingers Into Early Week
Although the worst of the chill will peak over the weekend, subfreezing temperatures could persist into Sunday and early Monday for much of the Midwest. Residents are being urged to protect pipes, plants, and pets from the frigid air and to prepare for possible slick travel conditions in the mornings.
Stay tuned to NapervilleLocal.com for continuing coverage of this Arctic outbreak affecting Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and for updates on how long the cold pattern is expected to last.
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.