Chicago, IL – Gray skies and falling snow set the tone across northern Illinois today as the region braces for its first significant December snowfall, prompting a Winter Weather Advisory through midnight tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, steady snow will continue through the afternoon, mixing with sleet at times before tapering late tonight. Totals between 2 and 4 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts south of I-80, especially near Joliet and Kankakee. While accumulations may not be heavy, road impacts will be — especially on I-55, I-80, and the Kennedy and Eisenhower Expressways, where visibility and traction could deteriorate quickly.
Snow will be heaviest between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., coinciding with the evening rush. Drivers should allow extra travel time, use headlights, and keep distance from plow trucks as road conditions worsen through sunset. Winds will stay light but temperatures near 30°F ensure accumulation on untreated pavement and bridges.
By Tuesday, skies turn partly sunny but colder, with highs around 27°F and wind chills dipping into the teens. The midweek stretch looks dry but frigid — highs near 18°F Thursday and lows in the single digits by Friday morning.
5-Day Outlook (Chicago, IL):
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 27°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of light snow, high 34°F.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high 18°F.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high 26°F.
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high 31°F.
