Chicago, IL – Residents across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana face a mix of light snow, freezing drizzle, and dangerous wind chills today as a cold surge settles into the region, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Chicago.
Bands of light snow are expected through early Wednesday evening, especially for communities near and south of I-88. Forecasters say most areas will see only a coating to half an inch of accumulation, but even light snow could create slick roads during the afternoon and evening commute. According to the NWS, patchy freezing drizzle may mix with the snow at times, increasing the risk of icy spots on untreated surfaces.
The more hazardous conditions arrive late tonight as temperatures tumble and wind chills plunge to between 10 below and 20 below zero. NWS meteorologists say the bitter cold will continue into Thursday morning and return again Thursday night into early Friday. While the cold risk is categorized as “limited,” officials warn that prolonged exposure can lead to frostbite on exposed skin.
For those traveling or working near Lake Michigan, choppy waters will create hazardous conditions for small craft today, with additional periods of dangerous waves likely Thursday and again on Sunday.
No spotter activation is expected, but the NWS encourages residents to monitor updates as the cold pattern persists into the weekend.
Residents should prepare for slippery travel tonight, dress in layers, and check on vulnerable neighbors as temperatures drop below zero.
