Chicago, IL – Another round of accumulating snow is expected to move across northern Illinois on Saturday, followed by dangerously cold temperatures that could make travel hazardous across the region through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, snow will develop Saturday morning and continue into the afternoon, with the highest accumulations expected south of Interstate 80. Snow totals of 2 to 5 inches are possible in areas near and south of the Kankakee River, while locations farther north, including the Chicago metro area, may see lighter amounts. Even modest snowfall could create slippery conditions due to bitter cold temperatures.
Forecasters warn that hazardous travel is most likely between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, with peak snowfall rates occurring late morning into early afternoon. Snow is expected to be light and fluffy, increasing the risk of slick roads and reduced traction.
As the system exits, frigid air will overspread the region Saturday night into Sunday morning. Wind chills are expected to drop between −15 and −25 degrees, cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Officials urge residents to limit time outdoors, cover exposed skin, and bring pets indoors.
The extreme cold may also trigger a rapid buildup of ice on area rivers, increasing the risk of localized ice jams and potential flooding near riverbanks.
While snow tapers off by Saturday evening, dangerously cold conditions are expected to linger into Sunday before gradual improvement early next week.
