Chicago, Illinois – A colder and increasingly active winter pattern is expected to develop across the Eastern Midwest heading into the New Year, bringing rising confidence in snow, icy travel conditions, and temperature swings from Dec 27 through Jan 9.
Large-scale pattern signals favor frequent storm systems moving through the central and eastern United States during this period. According to the National Weather Service, colder air is likely to press south into the Great Lakes and Ohio Valley after Christmas, creating favorable conditions for snow across Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Northern sections of Michigan and Ohio currently show the strongest signal for accumulating snowfall, while lake-enhanced snow may become an added factor downwind of Lakes Michigan and Erie.
Illinois and Indiana are also expected to see multiple opportunities for snow or mixed precipitation, particularly when systems track just south of the region. Even modest snowfall could lead to travel issues during high-traffic periods around New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Brief warmups followed by sharp temperature drops may increase the risk of icy roads, especially overnight and during the early morning commute.
Major travel corridors including I-90, I-94, I-80, I-70, and I-75 could see periodic slowdowns as systems move through. State transportation agencies across the region are urging drivers to remain flexible with travel plans, carry winter safety kits, and allow extra time during active weather windows.
Gusty winds may accompany some systems, raising concerns for blowing snow and reduced visibility, particularly in open rural areas. While the period will feature quieter stretches, the overall setup supports a wintry and unsettled start to 2026 across the Eastern Midwest, with snow chances returning at intervals into early January.
