Illinois wakes up under a steel-gray sky as snow skitters across pavement and wind bites hard. Gusts whip loose flakes along city streets, and the cold feels sharper with every step outside.
This morning in Chicago, temperatures hover near 11 degrees, but wind chills dip to 5–15 below zero. Light snow and patchy blowing snow reduce visibility at times, especially along exposed routes and elevated roadways. Untreated surfaces can turn slick quickly, even where snow looks minimal.
Travel impacts build through the morning commute. Blowing and drifting snow may briefly reduce visibility south and east of the city, including stretches near I-90 and I-94. Allow extra time, slow down on ramps, and watch for sudden slick spots.
Cold dominates the rest of the day. Highs struggle to reach the mid-teens, and strong southwest winds keep it feeling bitter. Any snow melt is limited, but refreezing remains a concern as temperatures stay locked below freezing. By evening, skies clear somewhat, but the cold intensifies again.
Midweek brings little relief. Sunshine returns Wednesday, yet highs remain near 15 degrees, with wind chills staying well below zero. Thursday stays dry but frigid, followed by another chance of light snow late Thursday night into Friday. Accumulations appear minor, but repeated snow chances raise concerns for flash freezing after brief daytime warming.
Meteorologists are also watching the broader setup. Lake-enhanced snow continues across parts of the Great Lakes, while colder-than-normal air holds firm across the Midwest. Looking ahead, precipitation chances trend lower early next week, though cold air lingers before gradual moderation.
For now, winter safety matters. Dress in layers, limit skin exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Driving later today or tonight? What are road conditions like in your part of the city?
5-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL
- Today: Blowing snow early, very cold, high near 14
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, bitter cold, high near 15
- Thursday: Sunny, cold, high near 13
- Friday: Chance of light snow, high near 16
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, slowly moderating, high near 23
