Use the operating-temperature range for your exact aircraft and battery. There is no universal cold-weather cutoff for drones. Check the separate charging instructions too. A temperature inside the aircraft range does not by itself establish that the battery or flight conditions are suitable.
Check the Right Temperature Range
The aircraft operating range, battery charging range and storage range describe different tasks. Read each one before preparing a cold-weather flight. Use the instructions for the installed battery, not a similar-looking model. Keep the manual available at the launch site. The manufacturer specifications are the starting source; warnings in the aircraft app and current manual also need attention. This page sets no replacement temperature limit and does not treat a successful flight by another pilot as evidence that your equipment can operate outside its instructions. DJI aircraft and battery temperature specifications.
Compare Forecast Conditions with the Equipment
Open the local drone forecast and read its temperature, precipitation and wind fields together. Check when the forecast was valid and whether it is a last-good snapshot. The city-center value does not describe every hill, waterfront or shaded launch site in that metro. Inspect the aircraft and battery before launch. Look for moisture, snow or ice, and use the manufacturer procedure to prepare the equipment. A cold-weather decision also needs a suitable place to land. Keep the route within the conditions you assessed, and check the equipment again if you move to a different site. VectorWX preflight checklist.
Plan for a Change in Conditions
Set a clear point to stop the flight if equipment warnings appear or the weather changes. Do not let a planned shot or a long trip to the site override the aircraft instructions. Review battery state before each departure and after each landing. The Part 107 preflight duties include checking that the aircraft is in a condition for safe operation and assessing local weather. A forecast temperature alone cannot complete that assessment. Use an official briefing and the applicable operating instructions when the weather leaves the decision uncertain. Record the source and time you used so a later check can identify what changed. 14 CFR 107.49 preflight duties.
Read Preflight Weather Checklist. Check current drone weather or the Chicago forecast before planning a local flight.