Chicago, Illinois – A classic midwinter pattern is expected to take hold across the Midwest from Thursday through Monday, with snow chances increasing across the Upper Midwest while much of the central Midwest contends with an extended stretch of Arctic cold, even where snowfall remains limited.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, the Midwest will see a sharp temperature divide during the January 15–19 period. Colder-than-normal air will dominate the entire region, but the highest snow potential will be focused farther north, while areas south of Chicago mainly deal with bitter cold and icy conditions.
In the Upper Midwest, including Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, and northern Michigan, snow chances are elevated as Arctic air interacts with periodic disturbances and lake influence. Cities such as Minneapolis, Duluth, Green Bay, and Marquette may see recurring light to moderate snow, along with lake-effect activity near the Great Lakes. Even modest snowfall could create hazardous travel due to persistent cold and limited melting.
Across northern Illinois, including the Chicago metro, snow chances remain more sporadic. Some light snow or lake-enhanced flurries are possible, but the dominant concern will be sharply colder temperatures. Daytime highs may struggle to rise, while overnight lows drop quickly, allowing icy patches to develop on untreated roads.
Farther south across central and southern Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, and Ohio, snowfall chances are lower, but Arctic cold will be more pronounced. Locations such as Peoria, Springfield, Indianapolis, St. Louis, and Cincinnati are expected to see repeated hard freezes, suppressed daytime highs, and dangerous wind chills at times. Any lingering moisture will refreeze overnight, creating slick travel conditions despite minimal precipitation.
This pattern is being driven by a deep Arctic trough anchoring cold air over the central United States. Relief appears limited through the weekend, with temperatures remaining below normal even during afternoon hours.
Residents across the Midwest are urged to prepare for prolonged cold, dress in layers, limit outdoor exposure during peak cold, and use caution on roads, especially during early morning travel. This Arctic pattern is expected to persist through Monday, with additional advisories possible as conditions evolve.
