Illinois – Wind whips off Lake Michigan, pushing light snow across dark pavement as commuters brace against biting cold. The air stings exposed skin, and visibility drops quickly during passing snow bands early today.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect for Chicago and central Cook County through midday. Wind chills are expected to dip as low as 20 to 25 degrees below zero, creating a frostbite risk on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, scattered lake-effect snow continues early, especially near the Indiana border. Porter County faces the highest risk for heavier snow bursts, but flurries and slick spots extend into the Chicago metro. Drivers should expect sudden reductions in visibility and icy stretches on untreated roads.
Temperatures hover near single digits this morning, with northwest winds gusting over 15 mph. Even minor melting during the day can refreeze quickly after sunset, raising concerns for flash freezing on bridges, ramps, and sidewalks. Plan extra time and use caution if traveling.
The cold eases slightly Tuesday, though conditions remain harsh. Highs climb into the upper teens with lingering wind chills below zero at times. Another weak disturbance midweek could bring a brief chance of light snow Wednesday, but major accumulation is not expected.
By Thursday and Friday, sunshine becomes more common. Temperatures stay cold but trend upward slowly, reaching the mid-teens to near 20. Overnight lows remain in the single digits, keeping refreeze risks in play.
The broader 6–10 day outlook suggests drier conditions across the Midwest. Temperatures gradually moderate late week into early February, though winter cold remains a recurring threat.
If you’re heading out today, cover exposed skin, check road conditions, and keep emergency supplies close. How are conditions where you are seeing them right now?
Five-Day Outlook – Chicago, IL
• Today: Cold with scattered flurries, high near 8°F
• Tuesday: Partly sunny and blustery, high near 18°F
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, slight snow chance, high near 15°F
• Thursday: Mostly sunny, cold, high near 15°F
• Friday: Mostly sunny, high near 17°F
