Chicago, IL – The northern tier of Illinois is bracing for a sharp turn to winter from November 28–30 as Arctic air drives across the Great Lakes, sparking lake-effect snow and bitter cold through the Black Friday weekend. Heavy snow showers could create slick travel conditions across the Chicago metro and areas west toward Rockford.
According to the National Weather Service office in Chicago, a moderate risk of heavy snow exists across far northern Illinois as strong northwest winds pull moisture off Lake Michigan late Friday through Saturday. The heaviest snow is expected near the lakefront and into McHenry and Lake Counties, where localized totals of 4–8 inches are possible. Wind gusts up to 35 mph may produce reduced visibility, drifting snow, and dangerous wind chills.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, travel could become difficult along I-90, I-94, and I-88, particularly late Friday into Saturday morning. Drivers should expect changing conditions, icy bridges, and delays on major routes around Chicago and the suburbs. Air travelers may also face de-icing delays at O’Hare and Midway.
Temperatures will remain well below normal into early next week, with highs in the 20s and low 30s and overnight lows in the teens. Residents are advised to prepare vehicles for cold-weather travel and limit time outdoors during the coldest periods.
