Last updated: February 24, 2025
November in Chicago, United States is marked by a dynamic range of temperatures, with daily highs peaking at a comfortable 22°C (73°F) while plunging to a chilly -14°C (6°F) at night. The average temperature rests around 4°C (40°F), making warmer clothing essential for outdoor activities. This month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of rainfall across approximately 8 days, blending cooler air with an 88% humidity level that keeps the atmosphere damp. As the city transitions into winter, November reflects a blend of vibrant fall colors and the onset of chilly days, captivating both residents and visitors alike.
As November settles over Chicago, temperatures begin to dip significantly, signaling the transition into winter. The month typically sees a minimum of -14°C (6°F), while the average hovers around a crisp 4°C (40°F). This drop is part of a broader trend where temperatures consistently decline from the milder days of October, which can reach highs of 29°C (85°F). The maximum temperature in November can still reach a pleasant 22°C (73°F), providing glimpses of warmth amidst the chill. Overall, the month serves as a stark reminder that winter is approaching, with its chilly breath felt more prominently in the increasing number of cooler days.
In November, Chicago experiences a significant drop in precipitation, recording approximately 65 mm (2.6 in) over just 8 days. This marks a noticeable reduction compared to the wetter months preceding it, particularly October, which sees a much higher amount of 142 mm (5.6 in). As the city transitions from fall to winter, the trend reveals that November often serves as a bridge, leading into a drier season. The increase in precipitation days from earlier months, such as May and October, contrasts with the sharp decline in both total precipitation and rainy days, emphasizing a gradual shift towards the colder, more stable weather typical of winter in the Midwest.
As November settles in Chicago, humidity levels climb to 88%, marking the highest point of the year. This increase is part of a seasonal trend where humidity tends to rise during the fall, peaking in late autumn before tapering off in the winter months. Notably, November's humidity is a departure from the relatively drier summer months, where figures hovered around 80%. The gradual rise in humidity from October’s 82% foreshadows the damp chill of winter, creating a moist atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the crispness typical at other times of the year. This pronounced increase not only influences the city's weather patterns but also affects how residents experience the transition into winter, making November a month of notable atmospheric change.
As autumn transitions into winter, the UV Index in Chicago experiences a significant decline. In November, the UV Index sits at a moderate 4, indicating a shift from the very high levels recorded during the summer months. This means that while the risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure is lower, it’s still wise to be mindful of sun safety, especially during the peak midday hours, where a burn could occur in as little as 30 minutes. Following the warmer months of June and July, which saw a maximum UV Index of 10, November's numbers signal a welcomed reduction in sun intensity. However, vigilance remains essential, as the sun can still be damaging, particularly during clear, sunny days. For more detailed insights into UV levels throughout the year, visit Chicago UV Index.
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In November, Chicago experiences a notable shift as the city transitions away from the abundant sunshine of summer. With 190 hours of sunlight, the month shows a decrease compared to October's 228 hours but still holds more brightness than the frigid depths of winter to come. Following an impressive 290 hours in May and peak sunshine in July with 362 hours, November serves as a gentle reminder of the shorter days ahead while still providing a fair share of light. As the year winds down, this month captures the essence of autumn, allowing residents to enjoy the crisp air under diminishing but still vibrant daylight.
In November, Chicago experiences a 44% chance of sunny weather, a notable uptick compared to the gloomier winter months. This figure plays into a larger trend where the likelihood of sunshine generally rises as the year progresses into the autumn. Notably, September stands out with the highest chance of sun at 56%, while November’s figures align closely with the summer months, indicating a transition from warmer sunny days to the crisper winter air. Such patterns reveal that even as temperatures begin to drop, the city can still enjoy significant periods of sunlight, providing a brief reprieve before the long winter ahead.
As the chilly winds of November sweep through Chicago, the city experiences a notable shift in daylight duration, with only 9 hours of sunshine gracing the skies. This decrease follows the gradual decline that begins post-summer, as daylight peaks at 15 hours in June and steadily nudges downward through the fall months. By November, the days shorten alongside the cool weather, mirroring the waning energy of autumn as it gives way to the stark stillness of winter. The consistency in November’s daylight—matching that of January and December—hints at the onset of the long nights ahead, reinforcing the cyclic nature of seasons. As residents brace for the colder months, the dwindling daylight invites cozy indoor gatherings and a gentle embrace of the winter spirit.
As November sweeps into Chicago, the city feels a noticeable shift in the air. With an average wind speed of 4.8 m/s (11 mph), November stands out as one of the brisker months, a welcome change from the quieter summer breezes that lingered at 3.0 m/s in August. The wind begins to pick up again, reminiscent of spring's earlier gusts, which flirted with 4.9 m/s in March. This uptick signals the approach of winter, as temperatures dip and the winds grow brisker, yet they seldom reach the biting extremes of the colder months. Amidst the transition, Chicagoans embrace the unique character of November—where the wind dances through the streets, creating a vibrant tapestry of fall’s final moments before winter's chill sets in.
The weather in Chicago changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of November'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.
November weather presents a more temperate experience compared to the chill of January. With average temperatures around 4°C (40°F) and maximums reaching up to 22°C (73°F), November is milder, though it can still dip to as low as -14°C (6°F). In contrast, January is significantly colder, with average temperatures dropping to -3°C (27°F) and minimums plummeting to -29°C (-21°F). While both months see similar precipitation levels—65 mm (2.6 in) in November and 68 mm (2.7 in) in January—January experiences one more day of rain. Additionally, November's humidity is slightly higher at 88%, compared to January's 82%. For a detailed look at weather conditions during this month, you can check Chicago weather in January.
November and February present distinct weather experiences, characterized by notable differences in temperature and precipitation. In November, temperatures range from a chilly -14°C (6°F) to a milder 22°C (73°F), with an average of 4°C (40°F) and relatively high humidity at 88%. This month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of total precipitation over approximately 8 days. In contrast, February is much colder, with minimum temperatures plummeting to -30°C (-22°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging -2°C (29°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 70 mm (2.7 in) but occurs over more days, averaging around 12. Despite February's lower humidity level of 83%, the stark temperature drop makes it significantly harsher than November. For more detailed insights into conditions, refer to Chicago weather in February.
November and March present distinct yet somewhat similar weather patterns. In November, temperatures typically range from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (73°F), with an average temperature around 4°C (40°F). The month experiences about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, accompanied by high humidity at 88%. In contrast, March showcases slightly cooler minimum temperatures hitting -18°C (-1°F) and similar maximum temperatures peaking at 23°C (74°F), while also averaging around 4°C (39°F). It tends to be wetter, with precipitation reaching 95 mm (3.7 in) across 11 days and slightly lower humidity at 84%. For more detailed information, you can check out Chicago weather in March.
When comparing the weather in November and April, notable contrasts emerge. November typically experiences lower temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), while April shows a slightly milder minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a higher average of 8°C (47°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, November peaks at 22°C (73°F), whereas April can reach up to 26°C (79°F). Precipitation levels are also higher in April, accumulating to 125 mm (4.9 in) over approximately 13 days compared to November's 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days. Humidity levels remain relatively similar, with November at 88% and April at 85%. For more detailed insights about April weather, you can visit Chicago weather in April.
November and May present contrasting weather patterns. In November, temperatures range from a chilling minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (73°F), with an average of about 4°C (40°F). The month sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by high humidity levels at 88%. In sharp contrast, May brings milder temperatures, starting from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a warm maximum of 32°C (90°F), with an average of 15°C (59°F). May experiences significantly more rainfall, totaling 156 mm (6.1 in) across 15 days, while humidity drops to 79%. For more insights on May weather, check out Chicago weather in May.
When comparing the weather in November and June, notable differences emerge in both temperature and precipitation. November generally experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -14°C (6°F) and an average of 4°C (40°F), while June enjoys much warmer conditions, with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 21°C (70°F). Additionally, June tends to be wetter, receiving 144 mm (5.7 in) of precipitation over 13 days, compared to November's 65 mm (2.6 in) across 8 days. Humidity levels are relatively high in both months, with November at 88% and June at 82%. These contrasts highlight the shift from the cold, damp atmosphere of late fall to the warm, often rainy days of early summer. For a more detailed look at June's weather patterns, you can check Chicago weather in June.
November and July present stark contrasts in weather. November experiences temperatures ranging from a chilly minimum of -14°C (6°F) to an average of 4°C (40°F), with a maximum reaching 22°C (73°F). This month also sees about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 8 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 88%. In contrast, July is much warmer, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable minimum of 14°C (58°F) to an average of 24°C (75°F) and a maximum of 33°C (92°F). July tends to be wetter, receiving 104 mm (4.1 in) of precipitation over 12 days, but the humidity is slightly lower at 80%. For more details, you can check Chicago weather in July.
November and August present a striking contrast in weather patterns. In November, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -14°C (6°F), with an average temperature of around 4°C (40°F) and a maximum reaching 22°C (73°F). This month experiences about 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, coupled with high humidity at 88%. In contrast, August boasts milder conditions with a minimum temperature of 11°C (53°F) and a comfortable average of 23°C (73°F), peaking at a warm 33°C (92°F). Precipitation in August is slightly higher at 84 mm (3.3 in) over 11 days, with a lower humidity level of 81%. For more information on the specific weather conditions during August, you can check out Chicago weather in August.
November weather is marked by cooler temperatures, with an average of 4°C (40°F), while September enjoys a much milder average of 20°C (68°F). In November, the temperature can drop to a minimum of -14°C (6°F), whereas September's lowest temperature is a much more pleasant 6°C (42°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in November at 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, compared to September's 78 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days. Humidity also plays a role, with November typically being more humid at 88%, compared to September's 80%. For a detailed look at September's weather, check Chicago weather in September.
November weather exhibits a notable drop in temperatures compared to October. While October enjoys a mild average temperature of 13°C (55°F) with a high of 29°C (85°F), November's average cools to 4°C (40°F), peaking at 22°C (73°F) during warmer days. Additionally, November experiences less precipitation, totaling 65 mm (2.6 in) over 8 days, compared to October's higher rainfall of 142 mm (5.6 in) across 13 days. The humidity also rises slightly in November to 88%, compared to October's 82%. For a more detailed overview, you can check Chicago weather in October.
November and December experience notable differences in weather patterns. In November, temperatures range from a minimum of -14°C (6°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F), with an average temperature of 4°C (40°F) and 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation occurring over 8 days, while humidity hovers around 88%. In contrast, December sees colder temperatures, with a minimum of -19°C (-2°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), resulting in an average temperature of 1°C (34°F). Precipitation remains similar, at 63 mm (2.5 in) over the same 8 days, but humidity slightly decreases to 84%. For a deeper look at December weather in the Windy City, visit Chicago weather in December.
As November unfolds in Chicago, the city experiences a notable transition, marked by cooler temperatures and an increase in precipitation compared to the preceding months. The warmth of early autumn gives way to brisk air, with average temperatures dipping significantly and chilly evenings becoming a norm. With around eight days of rain, residents should be prepared for a damp atmosphere, accentuated by high humidity levels that add to the overall chill. This shift signals the approach of winter, making November a reminder of the city's dramatic climate changes. For more insights into Chicago's weather patterns throughout the year, check out Chicago Climate.