Chicago, Illinois – Another fast-moving clipper system is set to bring accumulating snow to parts of northern Illinois late tonight through early Wednesday morning, with the greatest impacts expected along and north of I-80 and near the Illinois–Wisconsin state line.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, snow is expected to develop this evening and continue into the early Wednesday morning hours, potentially affecting the morning commute. Forecast snowfall amounts range from around 1–2 inches near the I-80 to I-88 corridor, with 2–5 inches possible closer to the Wisconsin border, where impacts are expected to be greatest. Untreated roads may become snow-covered and slick, and visibility could be reduced at times.
There remains some uncertainty on how far south the snow band may shift early Wednesday, but residents are urged to allow extra travel time and monitor forecast updates overnight.
Beyond the initial snow, impacts may continue Wednesday evening as a strong cold front sweeps through, bringing gusty winds up to 35 mph and scattered snow showers. These winds could cause blowing and drifting snow, potentially creating hazardous travel conditions during the evening commute.
Looking ahead, a surge of secondary Arctic air will move into the region Thursday night, with dangerously cold temperatures and wind chills persisting into the weekend. Wind chills could drop well below zero, increasing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone outdoors for extended periods.
Residents across the Chicago metro and northern Illinois are encouraged to prepare for changing road conditions, limit unnecessary travel during snowfall, and take cold-weather precautions as the prolonged stretch of winter weather continues.
