Chicago, Illinois – Light flakes drift across the city this afternoon as a sharp chill settles in, hinting at a tougher stretch ahead for northern Illinois through the Jan 17–18 weekend. Roads may feel damp now, but slush and patchy ice will likely develop as temperatures fall later today and again Friday.
According to the National Weather Service, snow returns after sunset with gusts near 30 mph, lowering visibility across Cook County. Accumulations should stay under an inch, yet even a thin layer may glaze bridges and ramps along I-90, I-94, and Lake Shore Drive.
Friday brings steadier snow showers and a biting north breeze. The air stays cold enough for flakes to stick on shaded pavement. Drivers should allow extra travel time, especially during the evening commute when scattered bands may pulse across the western suburbs. Light mixed precipitation could reach into northern Indiana by late Friday as a clipper sweeps the region.
Saturday stays colder with just a slight chance of snow showers before clouds thicken. Sunday looks quiet but brisk, with highs near 20°F and a wind that carries each breath across the lakefront. Plan for lingering slick spots each morning as refreezing becomes more common. Keep coats, gloves, and phone chargers ready.
More changes arrive early next week as another push of Polar air drops south. Conditions may shift quickly, especially near sunrise and sunset. Traveling Sunday? Tell us what conditions you’re seeing.
Five-Day Weather for Chicago, Illinois
• Today: Chance of flurries. High near 28°F.
• Tonight: Snow likely. Low near 20°F.
• Friday: Snow showers. High near 37°F.
• Friday Night: Snow showers. Low around 20°F.
• Saturday: Slight chance of snow showers. High near 21°F.
• Saturday Night: Mostly cloudy. Low near 12°F.
• Sunday: Chance of flurries. High near 20°F.
• Sunday Night: Mostly cloudy, blustery. Low near 7°F.
