Bears-Rams weather updates: How frigid Chicago forecast could make for one of coldest NFL playoff games

Just like every January, cold weather will influence the rest of the 2026 NFL playoffs. The Rams will travel from sunny California to the Windy City to face the Chicago Bears Sunday in the divisional round. 

A major aspect of Sunday night’s divisional round game will be the forecast, which anticipates single-digit temperatures, snow and winds exceeding 10 mph.

Los Angeles rarely plays in cold weather — winter temperatures in California usually range from 60 to 70 degrees, and SoFi Stadium features a roof. Nevertheless, rumors suggest that Matthew Stafford might emulate Tom Brady and wear a scuba suit to stay warm.

Here are the latest weather updates for Bears vs. Rams and the forecast for kickoff.

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• NFL divisional round picks against the spread

Bears vs. Rams weather updates

This section will be updated leading up to kickoff.

Sunday evening will be very cold for the Rams' game against the Bears. Temperatures will reach 21°F at most and drop to just 2°F, with wind chill making it feel like -1°F.

Although snow is expected, it’s likely to be less than an inch on the ground. The Bears are somewhat accustomed to cold weather, even if it isn't ideal for Caleb Williams. These conditions could give them an advantage at home against the Rams, who play indoors in sunny Los Angeles.

However, both quarterbacks should expect their throws to be affected by the nearly 20 mph winds during the contest. Stafford may have some Déjà vu, as he played in similar winter-like conditions in the divisional round last season against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Chicago forecast for Bears vs. Rams

• High temperature: 21 degrees
• Low temperature: 2 degrees
• Chance of precipitation: 76%

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How cold is it in Chicago?

The Sunday high in Chicago is expected to reach 21°F, with wind chill bringing it down to the single digits at Soldier Field. There's also a 69% chance of light winds, with snow showers at 20 mph, gusting to 27 mph.

Due to these conditions, the temperature is likely to be around 2°F,  but the wind will make it feel nearer to -1°F.

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