Scattered lake effect snow showers are expected to impact areas near Lake Michigan from Tuesday afternoon into Wednesday morning, creating localized travel issues along the lakeshore.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, periods of lake effect snow will mainly affect communities closest to the lake, including portions of Chicago, Evanston, Gary, Waukegan, and Michigan City. Snow showers may be intermittent, but brief bursts could reduce visibility and create slick road conditions.
Roadways most likely to be impacted include Interstate 94, Interstate 90, Lake Shore Drive, U.S. 41, and nearby surface streets near the lakeshore. While widespread heavy snow is not expected, localized accumulations could occur where snow showers persist, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and ramps.
High temperatures Tuesday are expected to range from the low to upper 20s, keeping pavement temperatures cold enough for snow to stick at times. Snow showers are forecast to gradually diminish by Wednesday morning, though lingering slick spots may remain during the early commute.
Outside of lake-affected areas, much of the broader Chicago metro region is expected to remain mostly dry, with limited impacts farther inland. Conditions may change quickly over short distances, especially when traveling east toward Lake Michigan.
Looking ahead, the National Weather Service reports that temperatures will gradually moderate later in the week, with highs expected to climb into the upper 30s to low 40s by Friday, allowing for improving travel conditions and melting of any remaining snow near the lake.
Drivers are advised to use caution near the lakeshore, reduce speed during snow showers, and allow extra following distance. Early-morning commuters, students, and overnight workers traveling near Lake Michigan should remain alert for changing conditions through Wednesday morning.
