Although the planet is rarely visible from Earth, you’ll actually be able to see Mercury with the naked eye in Illinois on three different days this year. So, mark your calendars for January 30, May 29, and September 22.
At only 34 million miles away, Mercury is the closest planet to the sun in our solar system. It’s also the smallest, about the size of Earth’s moon.
Mercury can be relatively dim in the sky, so getting away from cities or any place with lights that could wash out the sky after sunset is also a good idea. A spot along the Mississippi River may be favorable for viewing Mercury in the Land of Lincoln.
Do you plan to go out and see Mercury this year? Do you have any viewing tips to offer?
I always feel a little guilty once winter in Illinois rolls around — I know that I'll later eat my words, but when it first begins, I'm over the searing summer temps and ready for a cozy, snow globe-like experience. Plus, as someone with a Christmas birthday, a snowy holiday always feels extra special to me. So what are the 2024-2025 winter predictions for Illinois? The Farmers' Almanac extended winter forecast is out and has a major message: Bundle up.
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Frolicking deer, frosty breath, and barren trees — in Illinois, it can only mean one thing: winter! Our coldest season officially kicks off on December 21, though the entire month is expected to be cold and snowy.
After an unusually mild cold in Illinois, the Farmer's Almanac winter forecast for Illinois predicts that the Prairie State will see a bit of a mixed bag, depending on where in Illinois you live.
The winter weather predictions in Illinois are separated by the Farmers Almanac into two regions: The Lower Lakes and the Ohio Valley. Both areas will experience different weather patterns, so it makes sense to differentiate the two.
Folks in northern Illinois will experience a lake effect snow for this winter. Winter in Illinois will be colder than normal, but that doesn't always equate to more snow.
Aerial View of Chicgo skyline at sunrise, frozen Lake Michigan and sea smoke
Snow in northern Illinois is predicted to be below average for the 2024-2025 winter season. Expect most of the snow to fall in late December and carry on through early February.
If you’re closer to the Ohio Valley area, expect winter to be colder than normal—especially in February. The Ohio Valley region is predicted to experience above-average snowfall, so get those shovels ready.
Overall, northern Illinois is expected to have a cold and dry winter, whilst southern Illinois is predicted to have a cold and snowy winter.
Pro tip: Make sure you have a shovel, blanket, flashlight, and kitty litter in your car in case of bad weather. Kitty litter can be used as traction for your tires if you get stuck in the snow!
Back with a vengeance, winter is also expected to fight tooth and nail to stay. March is predicted to see big swings in temperatures and weather, with possible storms across the country as the cold weather reluctantly yields to spring.
According to the almanac, Illinois is split between a predicted cold and stormy winter on its eastern side, and a cold season with about average snowfall. Either way, we're in for a chilly few months that's likely to be wetter than usual.
Oh well, winter in Chicago is beautiful on a snowy day!
What about a white Christmas? Historically, Illinois has ranged from mild, snowless holidays in its southern tip, to blizzard conditions in the north. The vast majority of the state typically has a 10-50% chance of seeing over an inch of snow at Christmas. Given the cold and stormy conditions expected this year, there's likely a decent chance Illinois could see a beautiful blanket of snow.
Even though we may be in for a weird winter, we Illinoisans are fearless pros. We're a tough bunch that isn't afraid to layer up, help shovel out a neighbor, or make snow angels even on the coldest days. We also love enjoying the stunning winter scenery and making the most of a cozy day inside.
Remember that while the Farmer's Almanac winter forecast for Illinois is just that--a prediction, it's important to note that the Farmer's Almanac has an 80% success rate. They've been predicting each season with fairly good accuracy since 1792. Can you say the same thing for your local meteorologist?
What do you think of the 2024-2025 winter weather predictions for Illinois? Where's your favorite place to spend time in the Prairie State during the colder months? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your cold-weather activities by checking out these fun winter attractions and this list of exhilarating winter hikes. Whatever your plans, make sure you're prepared for the upcoming winter wonderland with our ultimate list of cold-weather packing essentials!
Here Are The Best Times And Places To View Illinois’ Fall Foliage In 2024
Illinois offers spectacular fall foliage with peak colors varying across the state from mid-October to early November.Fall is the most beautiful time of year. Use this handy interactive map to see when peak fall foliage will happen in your part of Illinois.
Illinoisians know that fall is the absolute best time of year here. There is simply nothing like fall in Illinois, when the autumnal vibes are in full effect with sweater weather, campfires, fall festivals, and pumpkin patches galore. But the best part is the glorious, blazing foliage that transitions from top to bottom of the state.
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So when do leaves change in Illinois?
This fantastic 2024 Illinois fall foliage map from Smoky Mountains shows when and where the Land of Lincoln can expect to get the best views of leaves changing colors.
The Fall Foliage Prediction Map is an interactive tool that lets users see when fall foliage will be the most spectacular across the United States. SmokyMountains.com utilizes a refined data model that depends on a combination of factors, including historical temperature and precipitation, forecast temperature and precipitation, the type of tree known to be prominent in that geographic region, the historical trends in that area, and user data.
Concordia Cemetery in Forest Park, Illinois, pictured here, is a tranquil place to spend some time outdoors this spooky season.
Northern Illinois will be at its peak around the middle of October, with the northeast corner of the state seeing its peak pass first. This breathtaking scene from the Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford offers a sneak peek at the vision to come in the upper part of the state.
By the third week of October, a wave of color will wash over Central Illinois. This stunning photo from the state's capital city of Springfield shows an incredible transition from summer into fall.
While the trees become bare further north, Central Illinois towns like Clinton are picturesque with leaves showcasing rosy reds, fiery oranges, and golden yellows.
The ever-gorgeous Southern Illinois will take its turn by the last week of October, when the leaves will change color from green to an inspiring fall palette. Rend Lake Rest Area is an ideal place to spend a fall day with cute bridges, walking paths, and plenty of mesmerizing trees.
So, when you're asking yourself, "When do leaves change color in Illinois?" this handy fall foliage map has you covered no matter where you live in the state. Want to see Illinois in all of its fall glory? Take this fall foliage road trip and visit some of the state's most beautiful fall destinations. Plus, our ultimate road trip packing list will make sure you have everything you need to explore Illinois as an autumnal wonderland during your journey.
