Spring Predictions for Northern Illinois: What The Almanacs Say

Okay, let's just be honest about something here. The current frigid weather conditions we've been living under for what seems like months here in Northern Illinois are starting to get on people's nerves and it shows. Right about now, a lot of us in Northern Illinois are wondering if spring will ever appear here.

After weeks of brutal cold and sub-zero wind chills, even the idea of a 40-degree day feels like something we can only dream of. So let's take a look at what the big long-range predictors like the Farmer’s Almanac, the Old Farmer’s Almanac, and some seasoned weather pros are forecasting for spring this year.

One thing is certain. It won't get here soon enough.

Since We're Talking Spring, Let's Start With What The Almanacs Are Saying

I know, some of us have some trouble with predictions that are made months in advance using methods and techniques that most modern meteorologists snicker about, but people have trusted them for almost 200 years...so there's that.

If you flip through their forecasts, both the Farmers' and Old Farmer’s Almanac are suggesting a gradual warming trend for the Northern Illinois region, but not without some classic Midwest mood swings.

The Old Farmer's Almanac long range spring forecast says that the country will trend toward warmer-than-average temperatures overall, with precipitation that varies regionally.

They're both leaning toward lingering cool spells in March, mixed with early hints of warmth and maybe a few late-season snow flurries. That fits the pattern we’ve seen in recent springs. Give us some hope, then hit us with the fact that winter isn’t quite done yet.

What The Meteorologists Are Saying About Northern Illinois' Upcoming Spring

If your brain requires long-range forecasts to be more like “show me the data” than “show me the things you figured out using sun spots,” the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s seasonal outlook leans on real atmospheric data and suggests that late winter into early spring could still favor below-normal temperatures in the Upper Mississippi Valley and parts of the Upper Midwest (right in our neighborhood).

Meanwhile, above-normal precipitation is favored for the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes region. That basically translates to chances for cold snaps, rain events, and maybe the chilliest spring in recent memory.

In a nutshell, experts and almanacs agree on one thing: winter’s grip might loosen very slowly. You’ll probably see some milder days and hints of spring by late March or April, but don’t be too shocked if Mother Nature throws in one last prank snow or frost before it's time to start mowing your lawn.