Illinois — Wind howls down city streets this morning, lifting loose snow into stinging bursts that slash visibility without warning. Sidewalks crunch underfoot, traffic slows to a crawl, and exposed skin numbs quickly as dangerous cold tightens its grip on Chicago this MLK Day.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through midday across much of northeast Illinois. Wind chills range from 20 to 25 degrees below zero, with pockets briefly colder during stronger gusts. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
Scattered snow showers continue early today, occasionally organizing into narrow bands. When these pass overhead, visibility can drop below one mile in minutes. Gusty northwest winds, reaching near 40 mph at times, blow and drift snow across open areas and untreated roads. Travel conditions deteriorate quickly beneath these bands, especially on I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive.
Snow tapers later this morning, but the cold does not let go easily. Afternoon highs struggle to reach the single digits, while wind chills remain well below zero. Drivers should allow extra time, keep fuel tanks topped off, and carry winter emergency supplies.
Conditions calm slightly tonight as skies partially clear. Temperatures fall again into the single digits, with lingering wind chills near minus 10. Tuesday offers a brief break, with sunshine pushing highs into the low 20s.
Attention then shifts to midweek. Another fast-moving system brings a renewed chance for snow Tuesday night into Wednesday. Accumulations look light for now, but even minor snow can create slick roads due to persistent cold pavement and flash freezing.
Longer-range outlooks suggest another surge of bitter cold late this week, keeping winter firmly in control across northern Illinois.
Five-Day Weather Snapshot for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: Blowing snow early, high near 9°
- Tonight: Mostly clear, low near 5°
- Tuesday: Sunny, high near 23°
- Wednesday: Chance of snow, high near 31°
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 20°
