Chicago, Illinois – Hazardous travel conditions are expected to develop east of Chicago beginning Wednesday as lake-effect snow intensifies across parts of northern Indiana and southwest Lower Michigan, with impacts likely felt during the Wednesday night and Thursday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, periods of heavy, wind-driven lake-effect snow are expected from Wednesday into early Thursday, especially across Porter County, Indiana, and nearby areas east of the city. Strong northwest winds will combine with falling snow to sharply reduce visibility and create blowing and drifting, making travel dangerous in the hardest-hit areas.
While the heaviest snow is expected east of the Illinois state line, parts of the Chicago metro area could still experience travel disruptions, particularly along routes leading toward northwest Indiana. Porter County, including areas near Valparaiso and the Indiana Dunes, may see several inches of accumulation, with enough snow to cause significant drifting and slick road conditions. Lighter, but still impactful, snow is also possible in northeastern Lake County, Indiana, and Jasper County at times.
Drivers traveling along major corridors such as Interstate 90, Interstate 80, and U.S. 20 should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, where visibility may drop from clear to near zero within minutes under intense snow bands. Officials urge motorists to allow extra time, reduce speed, and consider delaying non-essential travel, particularly late Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
Winds gusting out of the northwest will also drive wind chills lower, adding to the danger for anyone stranded or working outdoors. Even brief exposure during whiteout conditions can become hazardous.
Snow is expected to ease later Thursday morning, but lingering slick spots may persist into the afternoon. Additional updates or advisories are possible as confidence increases. Residents and travelers are encouraged to closely monitor forecasts and plan ahead as this lake-effect setup evolves near the Chicago region.
