Honestly, if you’re asking what is the temperature right now in chicago illinois, you probably already know the "official" number doesn't tell the whole story. As of 4:29 AM on Saturday, January 17, 2026, the air temperature in Chicago is exactly 19°F.
But here’s the thing about Chicago in the dead of winter. That 19-degree number is basically a lie.
Because of a steady 13 mph wind cutting in from the west, the feels like temperature is actually 6°F. That’s the difference between "it's a bit brisk" and "my face hurts after thirty seconds." If you're heading out to grab coffee or walking the dog near the lakefront, that's the number you actually need to dress for.
The Cold Hard Facts for Saturday, January 17
Right now, it’s mostly cloudy and dark. Humidity is sitting at 68%, which adds a certain damp bite to the air that makes the cold feel even more invasive. There’s a tiny 7% chance of some stray snow flurries right this second, but nothing that’s going to require a shovel before breakfast.
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The day ahead isn't looking much warmer. We’re looking at a high of 21°F later today. When the sun goes down (though let’s be real, with the "mostly cloudy" forecast, we might not see it anyway), the low will drop to 14°F.
Today’s Breakdown
- Current Temp: 19°F
- Real Feel: 6°F
- Wind: 13 mph from the West
- Condition: Mostly cloudy
- Daily High: 21°F
- Daily Low: 14°F
Why the Bears-Rams Game Is Changing Everything
If you’re a football fan, the temperature right now is more than just a "what coat should I wear" question. It’s a survival guide for the AFC Divisional Round. The Los Angeles Rams are coming to town to face the Bears at Soldier Field, and the timing couldn't be more brutal.
Local reports from Fox Weather and AccuWeather are already sounding the alarm. While it's 19°F right now, a Polar Vortex is sliding into the region. By the time that game kicks off tomorrow, we’re looking at wind chills that could plummet between -10°F and -20°F. Some forecasters are even whispering about a "real feel" of -23°F by Sunday evening.
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This isn't just cold; it's historic. This matchup is widely expected to be among the coldest games in NFL history. We've already seen intermittent snow showers starting to dust the city, and the City’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is basically on 24/7 high alert.
Understanding the "Chicago Mix"
Chicago weather is rarely just one thing. It’s a cocktail. Earlier this month, around January 8th, the city actually saw record-breaking warmth with temperatures hitting 60°F and heavy rain that caused flash flooding. It was weird. It was slushy. It was very "un-January."
But the atmosphere has a way of correcting itself. The current 19°F is part of a "wintry mix" cycle. We have a 20% chance of snow showers throughout both the daytime and nighttime today. It’s that dry, powdery lake-effect stuff that doesn't always show up on the radar until it's right on top of you.
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What to Actually Wear
If you’re stepping out into the current 6-degree wind chill, you need layers. Don't just throw on a big parka over a t-shirt.
- The Base: Something moisture-wicking. Even in the cold, if you walk fast and sweat, that moisture will turn into an ice block against your skin.
- The Insulation: A wool sweater or a fleece. This traps the heat.
- The Shell: You need a windbreaker or a heavy coat that actually stops the 13 mph western gust from cutting through your clothes.
- The Extremities: Most of your heat escapes through your head and hands. Wear a hat that covers your ears. Trust me.
Looking Ahead: The Sub-Zero Threat
The temperature right now is actually the "warm" part of the weekend. The National Weather Service in Chicago is predicting that the truly arctic air will settle in from Sunday night through Tuesday morning.
Warming centers are officially open across the city as of today, January 17. If you’re out and about and feel the "bite" getting to be too much, the OEMC has resources available through their app.
Basically, the city is bracing. We're in that classic Chicago stretch where the lake is steaming, the CTA platforms feel like wind tunnels, and everyone is wondering why they don't live in San Diego. But hey, it's the Divisional Round. The cold is just home-field advantage, right?
Your Move:
Check your tire pressure. Cold air like this makes the "low pressure" light pop up instantly. If you're going to the Bears game or just heading to the grocery store, make sure you have a blanket and an extra pair of gloves in the car. 19°F is manageable, but -20°F wind chills tomorrow are no joke. Stay inside if you can, and keep the pets off the ice.