Explainer, PAUL MERZLOCK

Gusty south winds brought mild air across the Chicago area on Sunday. Temperatures peaked in the mid 40s during the evening, making Sunday the mildest day in nearly two weeks. The same storm system that delivered the mild air is forecast to exit the upper Great lakes region on Monday. In its wake, colder air will sweep across the Midwest, returning area temperatures to seasonal normals for mid February. While portions of the upper Midwest experienced blizzard conditions from Sunday's storm, Chicago will once again escape with only a few flurries. No significant snow is forecast through the upcoming weekend, though a reinforcing surge of polar air is slated to arrive by Friday. High temperatures are forecast to lower to the 20s Friday, and remain well below freezing through Sunday.