Illinois greets the morning wrapped in steel-gray cold, where breath crystallizes and the wind cuts through layers fast. Pavement looks dry, but the air stings exposed skin within minutes.
Early today, temperatures hover near 4 degrees in Chicago, with wind chills plunging 10 to 20 below zero. The National Weather Service warns of limited excessive cold risk, especially during early travel and for anyone outdoors too long. Dress in layers, cover skin, and limit exposure when possible.
Cold remains locked in through Thursday. Daytime highs struggle to reach the mid-teens, and even sunshine offers little relief. Rivers across northern Illinois carry extensive ice, raising concerns for localized ice jam flooding in vulnerable spots.
Attention then shifts toward snow. By late Thursday night into Friday, snow becomes likely, with lake-effect bands possible near Lake Michigan. Accumulating snow could impact commutes, especially along I-90 and Lake Shore Drive, where gusty winds may reduce visibility. Confidence remains moderate on placement, but impacts could increase quickly if bands stall.
Friday night into Saturday keeps snow chances going, though totals remain uncertain. Even light accumulation matters in this cold. Melting during the day can refreeze after sunset, increasing the risk of flash freezing and slick roads. Plan extra travel time and watch bridges and overpasses closely.
Saturday stays cold, with highs in the low 20s. Snow chances linger before tapering. Sunday offers gradual improvement. Highs rise into the mid-20s with quieter conditions, though another weak snow chance returns later.
Looking ahead, 6–10 day outlooks hint at easing cold across the Midwest while the Southeast warms sharply into early February. For now, winter remains firmly in control near Lake Michigan.
Limit time outside, check on vulnerable neighbors, and prepare for changing road conditions. Seeing lake-effect snow or dangerous cold where you are? Share what you’re experiencing across the Chicago area.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: Mostly sunny, bitter cold, highs near 16°
- Thursday: Sunny, very cold, highs near 14°
- Friday: Snow likely, highs near 18°
- Saturday: Chance of snow, cold, highs near 23°
- Sunday: Partly sunny, slightly milder, highs near 26°
