Illinois – Light flakes drift across dark pavement early this morning as bitter air settles in, stinging faces and stiffening hands. Snow develops gradually through the day, and even minor accumulation could quickly change road conditions as Chicago pushes toward the end of 2025.
According to the National Weather Service office in Chicago, a limited snow risk continues today and into the evening. Snow develops mainly after mid-afternoon, with totals ranging from a coating to locally over an inch. Winds stay breezy from the southwest, gusting near 20 mph, driving wind chills close to zero at times.
Current temperatures sit in the lower teens, and pavement remains cold enough for quick accumulation. Drivers should expect slick conditions on I-90, I-94, Lake Shore Drive, and untreated neighborhood streets as snow intensity fluctuates. Visibility may drop briefly during steadier bursts.
Snow chances linger into the night before tapering. Another round arrives Wednesday afternoon with additional light accumulation possible. While totals remain modest, repeated snowfall and daytime melting raise concern for flash freezing once temperatures drop again. Bridges, ramps, and shaded roads often glaze first.
By New Year’s Day 2026, skies trend partly sunny, but the cold holds firm. Highs reach the low 20s, and wind chills remain biting. Late-week improvement brings quieter weather, though nighttime lows near 18 degrees keep icy patches alive.
Looking toward the first weekend of 2026, conditions turn calmer but still wintry. Mostly dry weather dominates, yet cold mornings continue to challenge early drivers. Plan extra time, keep winter gear handy, and stay alert for changing road conditions as the new year begins.
Heading out today? Share how roads look in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Today: Snow develops, highs near 24°F, wind chills near zero, up to 1 inch possible.
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, snow likely at times, highs near 32°F.
- New Year’s Day 2026: Partly sunny, cold, highs near 23°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, highs near 28°F, refreezing at night.
- Saturday: Partly sunny, highs near 29°F, winter chill continues.
