Last updated: February 24, 2025
March in Chicago brings a fascinating transition as winter gradually cedes to spring. The month showcases a maximum temperature of 23°C (74°F), while the average holds steady at 4°C (39°F), dipping as low as a brisk -18°C (-1°F). As the city shakes off winter's chill, precipitation totals around 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, contributing to the humidity levels soaring to an average of 84%. This blend of fluctuating temperatures and varying precipitation creates a dynamic atmosphere, setting the stage for the blossoming beauty of spring ahead.
In March, Chicago begins to shake off the winter chill, with temperatures experiencing a notable shift. The minimum temperature climbs to a brisk -18°C (1°F), while the average reaches a comfortable 4°C (39°F), signaling the onset of spring. Highs can soar to a pleasant 23°C (74°F), inviting residents to embrace outdoor activities as they bid farewell to the bitter cold of January and February. This gradual warming trend illustrates the city's transition from a frigid winter landscape to a more inviting atmosphere, paving the way for the blossoming beauty of April ahead.
March marks a notable uptick in precipitation for Chicago, with rainfall accumulating to 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. This increase from the 68 mm in January and 70 mm in February signifies the city’s transition into the more soggy spring season. As temperatures rise, so does moisture, and the wet conditions in March set the stage for even heavier showers in the following month, when April sees an even larger surge to 125 mm (4.9 in). This pattern highlights a consistent trend throughout the early part of the year, where late winter gives way to the wetter climate of spring, reinforcing the idea that March serves as a bridge between the drier practices of winter and the lush vitality of spring growth.
In March, Chicago experiences an increase in humidity with levels reaching 84%, a slight uptick from February's 83%. This trend of rising humidity continues into April, where it reaches 85%, indicating the onset of spring and the accompanying warmer weather. Interestingly, humidity levels begin to drop in May to 79%, suggesting a shift as the city transitions into summer. Overall, the gradual increase in humidity from the start of the year through March points to the changing seasons, preparing residents for the lush and often muggy months ahead.
As March arrives in Chicago, the UV Index sees a noticeable rise to 6, indicating a high exposure category and a burn time of just 25 minutes. This increase marks a significant shift from the more moderate levels of January and February, reflecting the transition into spring where sunlight becomes more intense. With April following closely at an even higher UV Index of 8, it's clear that residents should remain vigilant about sun protection as the days grow longer and warmer. For more insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out Chicago UV Index.
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March brings a significant increase in sunshine to Chicago, with 232 hours of sunlight lighting up the city. This marks a noticeable jump from February's 175 hours, hinting at the promising approach of spring. As winter recedes, the days grow longer and brighter, creating a vibrant atmosphere that invites outdoor activities and exploration. The upward trend continues into April, which sees even more sunshine with 251 hours, further enhancing the sense of renewal that this time of year embodies. As residents shake off the icy chill of winter, March serves as a glorious reminder of the warmth and brightness just around the corner.
As spring approaches, March brings a notable shift in Chicago's weather, with the chance of sunny days rising to an impressive 46%. This marks a significant increase from the winter months, where January and February lingered at 23% and 30%, respectively. While April's sunshine likelihood dips slightly to 39%, March stands out as a pivotal month, hinting at the emergence of longer, brighter days. Following the trend, sunny prospects continue to improve into the summer months, peaking in September at 56%. This upward trajectory in sunlight not only invigorates the city but also signals the much-anticipated arrival of warmer, more pleasant weather.
As March unfolds in Chicago, the days begin to noticeably lengthen, with daylight extending to a refreshing 11 hours. This gradual increase from 10 hours in February heralds the arrival of spring, inviting residents to shake off the winter chill and embrace outdoor activities. The trend continues into April, where daylight surges to 13 hours, and by May, it reaches an impressive 14 hours, showcasing the city's transition into the vibrant warmth of late spring. This pattern of increasing daylight not only brightens the environment but also uplifts spirits, signaling a time of growth and renewal after the shorter winter months.
As March sweeps into Chicago, it brings a noticeable shift in wind dynamics with an average wind speed of 4.9 m/s (11 mph). This uptick marks a peak for the first quarter of the year, reflecting a transition from the somewhat calmer winter months of January and February, where the winds hovered around 4.3 and 4.7 m/s (10 mph) respectively. Following March, the winds tend to ease into a gentle decline, with April and May dropping to 4.0 m/s (9 mph) and 3.9 m/s (9 mph). This trend hints at a blend of invigorating breezes that herald the onset of spring while also foreshadowing the summer's warmer, calmer days ahead. Overall, March stands out as a pivotal moment in Chicago's wind patterns, characterized by the brisk energy that propels the city into a new season.
The weather in Chicago changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March'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.
When comparing the weather in March and January, March offers a notable increase in temperature, with averages rising from January's chilly -3°C (27°F) to a more mild 4°C (39°F). January experiences much colder minimum temperatures of -29°C (-21°F), while March sees lows around -18°C (-1°F). Precipitation is more frequent in March, occurring over 11 days and totaling 95 mm (3.7 in), compared to January's 68 mm (2.7 in) over 9 days. Additionally, March's humidity remains slightly higher at 84%, while January's humidity is at 82%. For more detailed insights, check out Chicago weather in January.
March weather shows a notable improvement compared to February, with average temperatures rising from -2°C (29°F) to 4°C (39°F) and maximum temperatures soaring up to 23°C (74°F). This shift indicates a transition toward spring, evidenced by a significant increase in the minimum temperature from -30°C (-22°F) in February to -18°C (-1°F) in March. Additionally, while February experiences slightly less precipitation at 70 mm (2.7 in) and a similar number of wet days (12), March sees an increase in rainfall to 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, contributing to the overall dampness with a humidity level of 84%, just slightly higher than February's 83%. For a detailed look at February weather patterns, visit Chicago weather in February.
March and April exhibit distinct weather patterns as spring progresses. In March, temperatures range from a minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average of 4°C (39°F). The month sees about 95 mm (3.7 in) of precipitation over 11 days and an average humidity level of 84%. In contrast, April experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 26°C (79°F), leading to an average of 8°C (47°F). Precipitation increases to 125 mm (4.9 in) occurring over 13 days, with humidity rising slightly to 85%. This transition highlights the gradual warming and increased rainfall as the region fully embraces spring. For more details, check out Chicago weather in April.
When comparing the weather in March and May, there are notable differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. March typically experiences a broad temperature range, with minimums dropping as low as -18°C (0°F) and maximums reaching up to 23°C (74°F), while May boasts warmer averages, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum of 32°C (90°F). Precipitation is also more abundant in May, totaling 156 mm (6.1 in) over 15 days compared to March’s 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days. Humidity is slightly lower in May at 79%, compared to the higher humidity levels of 84% in March. For more detailed information, check out Chicago weather in May.
March and June exhibit striking differences in weather patterns. In March, temperatures can range significantly, with a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and an average of 4°C (39°F), while June boasts much milder conditions with a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). Precipitation also varies between the two months, with March receiving 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, compared to June's higher total of 144 mm (5.7 in) across 13 days. Additionally, March has a higher humidity level of 84%, while June maintains a slightly lower humidity at 82%. For more details on what to expect weather-wise in June, check out Chicago weather in June.
March and July present stark contrasts in weather patterns. In March, temperatures fluctuate more dramatically, with lows plummeting to -18°C (1°F) and highs reaching up to 23°C (74°F), resulting in an average temperature of 4°C (39°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity at 84%. In contrast, July boasts milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14°C (58°F) to a maximum of 33°C (92°F) and an average of 24°C (75°F). While precipitation slightly increases to 104 mm (4.1 in) over 12 days, the humidity decreases to 80%. For a more detailed look at July's conditions, you can check Chicago weather in July.
March and August showcase distinct contrasts in weather characteristics. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -18°C (1°F) and reach a pleasant maximum of 23°C (74°F), with an average temperature of around 4°C (39°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, August offers a much warmer experience, with minimum temperatures around 11°C (53°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). The average temperature rises to a comfortable 23°C (73°F), while precipitation is slightly lower at 84 mm (3.3 in), also spread across 11 days. Humidity remains relatively high but slightly decreased at 81%. For more details on August conditions, you can check Chicago weather in August.
March and September present contrasting weather patterns. In March, temperatures can dip as low as -18°C (1°F) and reach an average of 4°C (39°F), with maximum highs soaring up to 23°C (74°F). The month sees an average precipitation of 95 mm (3.7 in) over 11 days, paired with a notably high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September enjoys milder temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average of 20°C (68°F), peaking at 32°C (90°F). Precipitation decreases slightly to 78 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days, and humidity remains relatively comfortable at 80%. For more detailed insights, visit Chicago weather in September.
March and October present distinct climates, each with their own unique characteristics. In March, temperatures can swing dramatically from a chilly minimum of -18°C (1°F) to a comfortable maximum of 23°C (74°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is also notable, totaling 95 mm (3.7 in) over about 11 rainy days, coupled with high humidity at 84%. In contrast, October offers a milder experience, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 13°C (55°F). The month experiences slightly more rainfall at 142 mm (5.6 in) over 13 days, and humidity remains relatively low at 82%. For a closer look at the weather conditions in October, visit Chicago weather in October.
March and November share similar average temperatures, both hovering around 4°C (39°F - 40°F), but their weather patterns present notable differences. In March, temperatures range from a frigid -18°C (1°F) at night to a pleasant 23°C (74°F) during the day, signifying a transition into spring. This month also brings higher precipitation, with about 95 mm (3.7 in) over approximately 11 days and an average humidity of 84%. In contrast, November features slightly warmer minimum temperatures at -14°C (6°F) and a maximum temperature of 22°C (73°F). Precipitation is lower at 65 mm (2.6 in) across 8 days, accompanied by increased humidity at 88%. For a closer look at the specifics of November weather, visit Chicago weather in November.
In March, temperatures begin to rise, showcasing a minimum of -18°C (1°F) and averaging around 4°C (39°F), with a maximum reaching 23°C (74°F). This month also experiences more precipitation, with 95 mm (3.7 in) falling over 11 days, while humidity remains steady at 84%. In contrast, December tends to be colder overall, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) to a maximum of 18°C (64°F), and an average of 1°C (34°F). December sees less precipitation at 63 mm (2.5 in) across 8 days, but maintains the same humidity level of 84%. For more detailed insights into December weather, you can visit Chicago weather in December.
March in Chicago marks a striking transition from the harshness of winter to the gentle beginnings of spring. As temperatures begin to climb, residents experience a noticeable shift in weather patterns, with average highs hinting at warmer days ahead. However, the lingering chill is often accompanied by frequent precipitation, resulting in a damp atmosphere that can feel quite cool and crisp. The high humidity this month adds to the overall feeling of briskness, contrasting sharply with the more stable and warmer conditions of summer months. To dive deeper into how March's weather fits into the grander climate picture, visit Chicago Climate.