Chicago, Illinois – Wind gusts up to 40 mph are expected across northern Illinois Tuesday, with light snow showers possible north of I-80 before accumulating snow chances increase Wednesday night.
According to the US National Weather Service in Chicago, south to southwest winds will gust between 35 and 40 mph during the late morning and afternoon hours. The combination of strong winds and dry air may also elevate brush and grass fire risk.
A few light snow showers or sprinkles are possible Tuesday, mainly north of Interstate 80, though little to no accumulation is expected.
Attention then turns to a developing system Wednesday night into Thursday. Forecasters indicate accumulating snow is possible across parts of northern Illinois, with the greatest chances south of I-80 and even higher potential near and south of US-24.
While snowfall totals have not yet been specified, shifting expectations suggest some areas could see measurable accumulation late Wednesday night into early Thursday.
Travel impacts, if snow develops, would most likely affect corridors including I-57 near Kankakee, I-55 near Joliet, I-88 near Aurora, and portions of I-80.
High temperatures Tuesday are forecast between 40 and 45 degrees, with cooler readings in the 30s Wednesday before moderating later in the week.
The midweek timing could affect Thursday morning commuters if accumulating snow materializes.
Officials advise monitoring updated forecasts as track and temperature changes may alter snow placement and totals.
