Chicago, Illinois – A mid-January warm-up could bring periods of rain across the Great Lakes region while increasing the risk of freezing rain and icy travel conditions in colder inland areas as temperatures fluctuate near freezing.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, much of the Great Lakes region is favored to see above-normal temperatures during the January 9–13 period, with precipitation trending near normal. This pattern often supports rain near the lakes while allowing mixed precipitation to develop farther inland where cold air can linger near the surface.
Northern sections of the region, including parts of northern Michigan, interior Wisconsin, and northern Ohio, face the highest risk for freezing rain, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Even light ice accumulation could make travel hazardous on I-75 in Michigan, I-94 across Wisconsin, and secondary rural roads where temperatures remain colder.
Closer to the lakeshores, including Chicago, Milwaukee, Cleveland, and Detroit, precipitation is more likely to fall as rain, limiting snow potential but creating wet roadways and reduced visibility during heavier showers. Brief nighttime cooling could still allow isolated slick spots on bridges and overpasses.
Travelers are urged to monitor changing conditions closely and allow extra time for commutes as temperatures fluctuate. Additional advisories may be issued as the period approaches, especially if colder air lingers longer than expected across interior portions of the Great Lakes region.
