Chicago, Illinois – Drivers across Chicago and southern Cook County could face rapidly worsening road conditions Friday as two rounds of snow target the metro area, including a potential burst of intense lake-effect snowfall late in the day.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from Friday morning through midafternoon for central and southern Cook County, followed by a Winter Storm Watch from Friday afternoon into Friday evening. A fast-moving band of snow is expected to develop mid to late Friday morning, producing 1 to 3 inches in just a few hours. Snowfall rates could briefly reach one inch per hour, making travel hazardous during the late morning and early afternoon.
Later Friday afternoon and evening, forecasters are watching for an intense lake-effect snow band developing over southern Lake Michigan. If it shifts inland, eastern portions of Chicago and southern Cook County could see snowfall rates topping 2 inches per hour, with localized totals exceeding 6 inches. Areas east of the Dan Ryan Expressway and I-57 would be most vulnerable, including neighborhoods near the lakefront.
Officials warn that conditions could change sharply over short distances, ranging from near whiteout visibility to dry pavement just miles away. Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be prepared for sudden deteriorations in visibility. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as confidence increases heading into Friday evening.
