CHICAGO – Residents across Illinois and Indiana could see an early start to winter this year, with La Niña conditions pointing toward above-normal precipitation and a stormier-than-usual season. Flurries could arrive as early as September in northern counties, with heavier snow and ice events likely from December through February.
According to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, La Niña is expected to steer a more active storm track directly across the Midwest, raising the odds for frequent snow in Chicago, Peoria, Indianapolis, and Fort Wayne. The pattern also boosts the risk of mixed precipitation events, which often bring dangerous ice across central Illinois and Indiana. The Farmers’ Almanac warns that the season may feel relentless, calling it “Chill, Snow, Repeat.”
Travel disruptions are likely along I-55, I-65, and the Indiana Toll Road, where freezing rain and heavy snow could create treacherous driving conditions. School delays, power outages, and airline disruptions out of O’Hare and Indianapolis International are also more likely during peak storm systems.
With the La Niña influence expected to hold into February, both Illinois and Indiana should prepare for a prolonged stretch of winter hazards with little relief between storm cycles.
