Chicago, Illinois – Cold temperatures, light snowfall, and bitter wind chills are affecting the Chicago area as winter conditions persist through midweek, according to the National Weather Service.
As of early Tuesday morning, conditions at Chicago Midway Airport showed light snow with a temperature of 14 degrees. West-northwest winds between 10 and 15 mph were producing wind chill values as low as 2 degrees below zero Fahrenheit, or −17 degrees Celsius, creating hazardous conditions for those outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service forecast, snow chances increase through Tuesday and Tuesday night, with a 60 percent likelihood of snowfall. New snow accumulations are expected to remain under half an inch, but periods of light snow may reduce visibility and create slick conditions on untreated roads. Snow is expected to taper off by Wednesday night.
Daytime highs Tuesday are forecast to reach near 24 degrees, with little relief from the cold due to continued winds. Tuesday night lows are expected to fall to around 22 degrees, followed by a slightly warmer Wednesday with highs near 32 degrees. Despite the modest warming, wind chills will remain a concern during the overnight and early morning hours.
New Year’s Day is expected to be mostly sunny but cold, with highs near 23 degrees and overnight lows dropping to around 18 degrees. Dry conditions return Thursday and Friday, though temperatures remain below seasonal averages, with highs in the upper 20s.
The prolonged cold may impact commuters, students, outdoor workers, and unhoused individuals, especially during early morning hours. Even light snow combined with freezing temperatures can create hazardous travel conditions during peak commute times.
Residents are advised to dress in layers, limit prolonged outdoor exposure, and use caution while driving on potentially slick roadways. Motorists should allow extra stopping distance and remain alert for changing conditions.
