Illinois – Wind cuts through layers this morning, rattling coat zippers and biting exposed skin along city streets. Sidewalks feel brittle underfoot, and Lake Michigan looks steely as winter tightens its grip on the Chicago area.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, limited excessive cold risk remains in place, with wind chills dropping between 10 and 20 degrees below zero late and into the morning hours. Temperatures sit near 5 degrees early, but brisk northwest winds make it feel far colder. Officials warn frostbite can occur quickly on exposed skin.
Across northeastern Illinois and northwest Indiana, attention now shifts from cold to snow. Snow showers develop Friday, with lake-enhanced snow likely near Lake Michigan through Saturday night. Several inches of accumulation remain possible in some lake-adjacent communities, though exact placement remains uncertain. Inland areas may see lighter totals.
In Chicago, snow showers increase Friday morning and persist into Saturday. Roads may turn slushy during heavier bursts, then refreeze quickly after sunset. Travel on I-90, I-94, Lake Shore Drive, and nearby expressways could slow as visibility drops. Drivers should plan extra time and watch for sudden slick patches.
Cold air remains locked in through the weekend. Highs reach only the upper teens Friday and mid-20s Saturday. Sunday brings sunshine and modest improvement, with highs near the mid-20s. Another round of light snow is possible late Sunday night into Monday, keeping winter hazards in play.
Meteorologists are also monitoring ice buildup on rivers, which could lead to localized ice jam flooding if temperatures fluctuate. This setup reflects a broader Great Lakes pattern, where expanding ice cover enhances cold persistence and lake-effect snow potential.
Conditions may change quickly, especially near the lake. Commuting Friday or Saturday? Share what you’re seeing on roads and sidewalks.
Five Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: Mostly sunny and frigid. High near 16.
- Friday: Snow showers likely. High near 19.
- Saturday: Snow showers early, then cloudy. High near 24.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny and cold. High near 26.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy with a chance of snow. High near 30.
