Illinois – A sharp west wind moves across the state this morning, carrying crisp air over damp roads as Thanksgiving Travel begins to surge. Drivers heading out early will face gusty conditions and fast-changing skies, especially on I-90, I-55, I-80, and along Lake Shore Drive. These winds may push high-profile vehicles and slow traffic during the first major holiday rush of the week.
According to the National Weather Service, west winds strengthen through today with sustained speeds near 25 to 35 mph and gusts that may reach 50 mph. Travel impacts increase through the afternoon as crosswinds intensify on north–south routes. Early rain could briefly mix with wet snow, creating a quick Winter Tease even though no meaningful accumulation is expected. Still, pavement may feel slick in shaded areas where temperatures sit close to freezing.
Wednesday brings another round of steady winds and a brisk, biting chill. Highs hold near the upper 30s as a stronger cold push slides in from the Plains. Forecast models show early signs of a broader winter pattern developing from the Northwest through the Great Lakes, with some regions of the Midwest at risk for accumulating snow Friday into Saturday. For Illinois travelers returning after Thanksgiving dinner or Black Friday outings, it’s worth watching for potential system shifts.
Thanksgiving Day remains the calmest of the stretch: partly sunny, breezy, and cool with highs in the lower 40s. Black Friday shoppers will feel a colder start with wind-nipped air, but roads stay mostly dry. Light snow chances return this weekend, especially north of I-80 as temperatures dip into the lower 30s.
Five-Day Outlook
Wednesday: Windy, 37°, flurries possible.
Thanksgiving Day: Partly sunny, 43°, breezy.
Friday: Mostly cloudy, 38°, chilly.
Saturday: Snow chance, 34°.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy, 32°, light snow possible.
