Illinois – Illinois wakes under a hard, metallic sky this morning as gusty northwest winds push –20°F wind chills into Chicago’s neighborhoods. Frost clings to rail platforms, and snow dust from last night’s flurries drifts across quiet intersections as the city leans into one of its sharpest December cold snap moments so far.
Very cold air continues pouring across Lake Michigan, holding wind chills between –10° and –25°F through midday. Meteorologists expect the coldest pockets across the Southwest Side and open stretches near I-55. Anyone traveling early should prepare for stinging wind on exposed skin and slower warm-up times for vehicles. Even though skies stay mostly clear, flash-freeze slick spots may form where minor melt refroze on shaded pavement.
By midmorning, the sun breaks through, but temperatures climb only toward 13°F, with winds gusting near 25 mph. The bitter air remains the dominant hazard today, keeping commuters bundled in multiple layers as trains, buses, and airport ramps contend with the harsh conditions.
Tonight stays frigid, with lows near 1°F and wind chills dipping back toward –10°F. Monday brings a gradual shift. Temperatures rebound into the mid-20s, and southwest winds increase to 10–15 mph. The city begins to thaw slightly by Tuesday, when highs push toward 38°F, a welcome — if temporary — winter tease in an otherwise cold December pattern.
Hydrologists continue monitoring river ice expansion along northern Illinois waterways. Ice jams remain possible, and rapid rises may occur with little warning. Warmer midweek temperatures could trigger slow melt later but remain uncertain.
