Arctic Blast Will Put a Chill Into the Days Ahead

Today is likely to see areas of patchy, dense fog through the evening in the Chicago area. The fog is expected to be heavier in areas with dense snowpack, according to the National Weather Service. We’ll have rain throughout Friday and drizzle likely after 9 p.m. The temperature will hold steady at 40-42 degrees.

That’s the good news. Now, the yucky news.

Rain turns to snow on Saturday, with a chance of snowfall between noon and 3 p.m. and snow likely after 3 p.m. Initially, the snow will be wet, predicts the NWS, but as cold air moves into the region the snow will get fluffier. And who doesn’t love fluffy snow? Expect a high temperature of 36 on Saturday.

But it’s downhill from there as an arctic chill descends from Canada into the Midwest. Strong winds Saturday night could cause blowing, drifting snow. There could be 2 to 5 inches of accumulation in some areas, according to the NWS forecast.

And Monday, we’ll be hit with a real freeze — wind chills will be 10 below to 15 below zero. And possibly more snow in the evening.

No matter how much snow falls this weekend however, you’re all very unlikely to hire someone to help you clear your driveway. So, take some pride in that.

Also on Patch

• Gesundheit! Courtroom Sneeze Lands Woman in Jail

The Chicago area ranks as the second-toughest in the United States when it comes to handling snowfall, according to a recent study by Thumbtack, an online directory of service providers. We generally wait until 8.8 inches of snow piles up before summoning help, second only to Buffalo-area residents, who wait until there’s 9.7 inches before hiring someone.

The wimpiest areas? Springfield, MA, and Rochester, NY, who need help after less than an inch.

Morning Weather Radar: Rain, Rain, Go Away

Will You Buy Powerball Tickets?

• Tips From a Guy Whose Won Several Lotteries to Improve Your Chances