Illinois — Wind roars through downtown streets this morning, tossing leaves down Michigan Avenue and rattling loose decorations as a powerful cold front sweeps across Chicago. Flags strain, traffic lights sway, and the air carries a sharp bite — the unmistakable sign of winter arriving early.
The National Weather Service in Chicago has issued a Wind Advisory through 9 p.m. Wednesday, warning of gusts up to 50 mph and localized bursts near 60 mph. Drivers, especially those on I-80, I-55, and Lake Shore Drive, should expect difficult travel as high-profile vehicles sway in crosswinds. Loose outdoor items and holiday décor should be secured before midday.
Westerly winds will stay strong into the afternoon before easing overnight. Scattered snow showers may mix in at times, mainly north and west of the metro area, with little accumulation expected — a winter tease ahead of bigger changes later this week.
Thanksgiving Day will bring calmer weather and plenty of sunshine, with highs around 34°F and breezy northwest winds keeping it brisk but bright.
By Friday, clouds build again as another system approaches, delivering a chance of light snow or a rain-snow mix late in the day. That pattern continues into Saturday, with limited snow risk and gusty northwest winds returning.
Looking ahead, forecasters are watching a strong Arctic front expected to push across the Midwest early next week. It could deliver below-normal temperatures and the season’s first significant snow between December 1–5 — a reminder that the holiday travel window is narrowing under winter’s approach.
Five-Day Outlook (Wed–Sun)
• Today: Windy, snow showers possible, 36°F.
• Thursday: Sunny, breezy, 34°F.
• Friday: Cloudy, 33°F, snow chance late.
• Saturday: Cloudy, snow possible, 33°F.
• Sunday: Mostly cloudy, 32°F.
