Last updated: February 24, 2025
April in Chicago showcases a dynamic shift in weather, characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 26°C (79°F) while settling at an average of 8°C (47°F). Despite the warmth, the month can still experience chilly dips, with minimum temperatures plunging to -6°C (22°F). This transitional period is marked by significant precipitation, accumulating to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, contributing to a humid atmosphere with levels around 85%. Embrace the unpredictability, as April brings a blend of crisp air and refreshing rain, making it a time of renewal and vibrant growth in the Windy City.
In April, Chicago begins to shed the winter chill as temperatures gradually rise, offering a refreshing contrast to the preceding months. The minimum temperature hovers around -6°C (22°F) while the average climbs to 8°C (47°F), allowing residents to enjoy the emergence of spring. With daytime highs reaching up to 26°C (79°F), the city comes alive, drawing people outdoors to take advantage of the milder weather. This transition marks a significant departure from the biting cold of January and February, where temperatures plunged well below freezing. As April unfolds, it sets the stage for the warmer months ahead, making it a pivotal time in Chicago's annual climate cycle.
April in Chicago marks a notable increase in precipitation, with 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain falling over 13 days, signaling a shift towards the wetter spring months. This uptick is significant compared to the preceding months, where March recorded 95 mm (3.7 in) over only 11 days. As temperatures begin to rise, the city experiences a burst of spring growth, fueled by this ample moisture. Following April, May continues the trend of increased rainfall, contributing to a lush environment, with an even higher average of 156 mm (6.1 in). This pattern underscores April's transitional role in Chicago's climate—bridging the drier winter months with the more saturated spring and summer seasons.
As April unfolds in Chicago, the city experiences a notable rise in humidity, reaching 85%—the highest level so far this year. This increasing trend, which began with 82% in January, escalates through the winter and early spring months of March and April. Following April, a slight decrease occurs in May with humidity dropping to 79%, suggesting a brief respite before the summer months bring fluctuations back into the mix. Overall, the gradual increase in humidity leading into April reflects the transition into a more humid spring, paving the way for the balmy summer ahead.
As spring emerges in April, Chicago experiences a notable surge in the UV Index, reaching a very high level of 8. This increase indicates a dramatic shift in sun exposure potential as residents transition from the moderate levels seen in the winter months. With a burn time of only 15 minutes, it's essential to take precautions against UV radiation, particularly as the warmer months approach. The trend of rising UV values continues into May and June, where the Index peaks at 10. This elevation in the UV Index emphasizes the importance of sun safety during this time; understanding these fluctuations is crucial for protection against harmful exposure. For more details on UV levels throughout the year, visit Chicago UV Index.
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In April, Chicago basks in a delightful 251 hours of sunshine, marking a notable increase from the previous months and heralding the vibrant dawn of spring. As winter retreats, the city transitions from 116 hours in January through 175 hours in February, and 232 hours in March, showcasing a clear upward trend in daylight. The sunny days of April not only invite residents outdoors but also pave the way for May's even brighter 290 hours, as Chicagoans eagerly embrace the warmth and energy of the season. This surge of sunlight continues into the summer months, culminating in July's peak of 362 hours, creating a dynamic contrast with the colder, grayer days of the earlier months.
As spring unfolds in Chicago, April experiences a 39% chance of sunny weather, a slight dip from the previous month. This trend reflects the city's transitional climate, where warmer temperatures peek through the lingering remnants of winter. Notably, after March's 46% likelihood of sunshine, April hints at a gradual embrace of spring showers, which sets the stage for the sunnier days of May, with its 34% chance of clear skies. However, the sunshine likelihood begins to rise again as summer approaches, with later months like August boasting a more promising 47%. This ebb and flow of sunshine patterns not only shapes outdoor plans but also captures the essence of Chicago’s distinctive seasons.
As spring unfolds in Chicago, April brings a noticeable increase in daylight, with an average of 13 hours illuminating the city. This marks a significant jump from the 11 hours in March, reflecting the gradual approach of longer days that continue into the summer months. The trend highlights a seasonal transition, where sunlight not only brightens outdoor spaces but also energizes the community. Following April, May will further lengthen daylight to 14 hours, paving the way for the vibrant summer days ahead. The progression from the shorter, colder days of winter to the sun-soaked spring indicates a welcomed shift that many Chicagoans eagerly anticipate each year.
As April unfolds in Chicago, the city's winds begin to whisper a gentle change in pace. With an average wind speed of 4.0 m/s (9 mph), April marks a slight decline from the brisker breezes of March, which boast an average of 4.9 m/s (11 mph). This gradual shift signals the end of winter's chill and a transition towards the calmer winds of late spring. Interestingly, while April's winds decrease, they remain consistent with the overall trend observed in the preceding months; the wind speeds tend to gradually decline from January's 4.3 m/s (10 mph) down to the lighter breezes of summer. This seasonal dance of wind speeds provides a refreshing backdrop as the city transitions from the cool embrace of early spring to the warmth of summer, making April a unique month in Chicago's meteorological narrative.
The weather in Chicago changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of April's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Chicago and find detailed weather information for every month.
April and January exhibit markedly different weather patterns. In January, the temperatures are significantly lower, with a minimum of -29°C (-21°F), an average of -3°C (27°F), and a maximum of only 14°C (57°F). In contrast, April sees a wide temperature range, from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a warm 26°C (79°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). While January experiences less precipitation, averaging 68 mm (2.7 in) over 9 days, April is wetter with 125 mm (4.9 in) falling over 13 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar in both months, at 82% in January and slightly higher at 85% in April. For a more detailed look at January weather, you can check out Chicago weather in January.
April and February present striking contrasts in weather. In February, temperatures can plummet as low as -30°C (-22°F), with an average of -2°C (29°F) and a maximum of only 18°C (64°F). This harsh climate is accompanied by relatively low precipitation of 70 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days, and humidity levels sit around 83%. In contrast, April experiences a much pleasant range of temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F), an average of 8°C (47°F), and a maximum that rises to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation increases to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, and humidity rises slightly to 85%. For a deeper insight into February's chilly conditions, check out Chicago weather in February.
April generally presents milder conditions compared to March, with a minimum temperature of -6°C (22°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F), while March sees a colder minimum of -18°C (-1°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F). Despite the warmth, April experiences higher maximum temperatures, reaching up to 26°C (79°F), compared to March's peak of 23°C (74°F). Precipitation levels in April rise to 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, slightly above March's 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. Additionally, both months exhibit similar humidity levels, with April at 85% and March at 84%. For a more detailed look at March conditions, you can visit Chicago weather in March.
April weather features a wide temperature range, with minimums dipping to -6°C (22°F) and maximums reaching 26°C (79°F), resulting in an average of 8°C (47°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 85%. In contrast, May brings milder conditions, with minimum temperatures hovering around -1°C (31°F) and maximums soaring to 32°C (90°F), leading to an average of 15°C (59°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 156 mm (6.1 in) but is spread over 15 days, and humidity decreases to 79%. For a more detailed look at the weather in this transitional month, visit Chicago weather in May.
April and June exhibit distinct weather contrasts indicative of the changing seasons. In April, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month is characterized by significant precipitation of 125 mm (4.9 in) over about 13 days, coupled with high humidity at 85%. In contrast, June boasts a warmer climate with temperatures starting at a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and reaching a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 21°C (70°F). While June experiences slightly more rainfall at 144 mm (5.7 in) over the same number of days, it has a slightly lower humidity level of 82%. For more detailed insights, check out Chicago weather in June.
April and July exhibit significant differences in weather patterns. In April, temperatures can plunge as low as -6°C (22°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum reach of 26°C (79°F). The month is relatively wet, receiving 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over 13 days, coupled with high humidity at 85%. In contrast, July presents a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to an average of 24°C (75°F) and a peak of 33°C (92°F). Although July sees slightly less precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. Overall, while April features cooler temperatures and higher humidity, July offers warmth and a more humid atmosphere. For more detailed insights, you can check out Chicago weather in July.
April and August present distinct weather patterns. In April, temperatures can range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at night to a mild 26°C (79°F) during the day, with an average of 8°C (47°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, amounting to 125 mm (4.9 in) over about 13 days, and humidity is high at 85%. In contrast, August features warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 11°C (53°F) and daytime highs reaching as much as 33°C (92°F), averaging around 23°C (73°F). The precipitation in August is less, totaling 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, and humidity is somewhat lower at 81%. For more details, check out Chicago weather in August.
April and September present distinct weather patterns, each offering its own unique characteristics. In April, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a comfortable maximum of 26°C (79°F), while September enjoys milder conditions, with temperatures varying from 6°C (42°F) to a warm 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is more frequent in April, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, compared to September's 78 mm (3.1 in) spread across just 9 days. Additionally, April has a higher humidity level at 85%, slightly tapering off to 80% in September. For more detailed weather information, check out Chicago weather in September.
April and October present distinct weather patterns, showcasing the transition of seasons. In April, temperatures range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) at their lowest to a warm 26°C (79°F) at their peak, with an average of 8°C (47°F). This month sees about 125 mm (4.9 in) of precipitation over approximately 13 days, and the humidity levels are relatively high at 85%. In contrast, October boasts slightly milder temperatures, with minimums around -1°C (31°F) and maximums reaching 29°C (85°F), averaging at 13°C (55°F). The precipitation increases slightly to 142 mm (5.6 in) over the same number of rainy days, while humidity remains a bit lower at 82%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Chicago weather in October.
April and November present contrasting weather patterns, each with its unique characteristics. In April, temperatures can range from a chilly -6°C (22°F) to a pleasant 26°C (79°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F), alongside significant precipitation of 125 mm (4.9 in) occurring over 13 days. Humidity is relatively high at 85%, contributing to a feeling of dampness. In contrast, November experiences colder temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and a maximum of 22°C (73°F), and an average temperature of 4°C (40°F). The month sees less precipitation, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, while humidity slightly increases to 88%. Overall, April tends to be more variable and mild, while November is generally colder and drier. For more detailed insights, check out Chicago weather in November.
April and December exhibit strikingly different weather patterns. In April, temperatures can range from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to a maximum of 26°C (79°F), with an average of 8°C (47°F), while December sees much colder conditions, with temperatures varying from -19°C (-2°F) to a high of just 18°C (64°F) and an average of 1°C (34°F). Additionally, April experiences higher precipitation, totaling 125 mm (4.9 in) over 13 days, contrasted with December's 63 mm (2.5 in) across only 8 days. Both months share similar humidity levels, with April at 85% and December slightly lower at 84%. For more detailed insights on how Chicago's weather changes in December, check out Chicago weather in December.
April in Chicago marks a refreshing transition from the harshness of winter to the promise of spring. With daily temperatures gradually warming—reaching up to a pleasant 26°C (79°F)—the month stands in contrast to the bitter cold of previous months. However, the unique April blend of high humidity and frequent precipitation, averaging 125 mm across about 13 days, reminds residents that springtime can be a bit unpredictable. This month encapsulates an evolving climate as the city awakens from winter dormancy, setting the stage for sunnier days ahead. To learn more about what to expect throughout the year, visit Chicago Climate.