Chicago, Illinois – Slippery expressways and powerful wind gusts could snarl travel across Illinois beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a wetter late-winter pattern increases the risk for freezing rain and high winds through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across the Great Lakes during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch. With temperatures hovering near seasonal averages, brief drops toward 32 degrees may allow freezing rain to develop, especially overnight and during early morning commutes.
Statewide impacts will likely center on the Chicago metro area and northern Illinois. Elevated sections of I-90, I-94 and I-290, along with ramps feeding onto the Kennedy and Dan Ryan expressways, could turn slick if light ice accumulates. Lake Shore Drive is particularly vulnerable when temperatures hover near freezing and moisture moves inland from Lake Michigan.
Farther south toward Springfield and Peoria, precipitation may fall mainly as rain, but fluctuating surface temperatures could still create brief icing on bridges over the Illinois River.
Wind risk increases late in the period, particularly Sunday into Monday. Gusts between 50 and 60 mph are possible along the Lake Michigan shoreline and across open areas of northern Illinois. Strong winds combined with saturated soil could down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages.
Residents should secure outdoor items, charge electronic devices and allow extra travel time during peak icing windows. The unsettled pattern continues through March 2, and additional advisories may be issued across the state.
