CHICAGO, IL – A sharp Arctic blast grips Illinois and Indiana this Thursday morning, ushering in one of the coldest starts to December so far. The air feels biting across open fields, and even city streets shimmer under a thin frost. Meteorologists say the frigid pattern will tighten its grip through the weekend, with snow likely by Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago/Romeoville, wind chills will plunge to between 10 and 15 below zero late tonight, renewing risks for frostbite and slick pavement. By early Saturday, a 30–40% chance of snow develops, possibly dropping 2–4 inches across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana.
Drivers should prepare for reduced visibility and icy patches, especially along I-90 and I-80, where refreezing could occur as temperatures hover near freezing. Plan extra time for errands or commutes—this is the kind of cold that freezes wet roads in minutes.
By Sunday, snow may taper, but temperatures remain locked in the 20s. Forecasters warn that another shot of lake-effect snow could hit the region midweek as December’s second week brings lingering Arctic air from the north.
Five-Day Outlook (Chicago & NW Indiana):
- Friday: High 28°F, partly sunny.
- Saturday: High 31°F, snow possible late.
- Sunday: High 30°F, light snow, breezy.
- Monday: High 25°F, mostly cloudy.
- Tuesday: High 34°F, chance of flurries.
