Chicago, Illinois – Bitter cold and accumulating snow are expected to impact northern Illinois and northwest Indiana through the weekend, prompting elevated cold and snow risks across the region.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago/Romeoville, a Limited Excessive Cold Risk is in effect tonight, with wind chill values dropping as low as 15 below zero late tonight across interior northern Illinois. Cold temperatures combined with gusty winds will create hazardous conditions, particularly overnight and during early morning hours.
The cold intensifies this weekend. From Saturday through early Monday morning, the region faces an Elevated Excessive Cold Risk, with the coldest conditions expected Saturday night into Sunday morning. During that period, wind chills colder than 20 below zero are possible in parts of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana, increasing the risk of frostbite on exposed skin in minutes.
In addition to the cold, another round of snow is likely on Saturday, with the highest risk south of Interstate 80. While snowfall amounts were not specified in the outlook, the timing and location could impact travel, particularly for drivers using east-west routes across southern portions of northern Illinois and into northwest Indiana.
The Hazardous Weather Outlook covers much of northern Illinois, including the Chicago metro area, as well as Lake, Porter, Newton, Jasper, and Benton counties in Indiana.
Residents are urged to take precautions during the extreme cold, including limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, and ensuring pets and vulnerable individuals have adequate warmth. Commuters and weekend travelers should monitor forecasts for updates on snow timing and road conditions.
Spotter activation is not expected through tonight, but conditions may change as the weekend system develops.
