Chicago is currently experiencing lake-effect chills, a weather phenomenon where cold air moves over the warmer waters of Lake Michigan, leading to cooler temperatures. The current temperature in Chicago is 53°F (12°C), which is noticeably colder than average for this time of year. This lake-effect chill is a common occurrence in regions near large bodies of water, capable of causing sudden and significant drops in temperature. The lake's warmth heats the lower layer of air, which then rises, cools, and condenses into clouds. If conditions are right, these clouds can produce precipitation, often in the form of light rain or drizzle, further contributing to the chilly conditions. The effect is typically most pronounced in areas downwind of the lake.