Illinois – Snowflakes drift across dark pavement early this morning, clinging to windshields and softening lane lines. Traffic moves cautiously. Winter Weather is actively unfolding across the Chicago metro, with conditions set to worsen again before the holiday weekend ends.
Snow develops mainly this morning, especially along and north of Interstate 80, impacting the early commute. Accumulation remains light, generally under one inch, but slick roads and reduced visibility are possible. Snow showers taper midday, then may redevelop late afternoon into evening, creating another round of localized travel issues.
Temperatures hover in the mid-20s early, climbing near 36 degrees later today. That brief warmth may melt snow on untreated roads. Once temperatures fall again tonight, flash freezing becomes a concern. Drivers should watch bridges, ramps, and shaded streets after sunset.
Saturday stays cold and mostly cloudy, with highs near 21 and a slight chance of snow during the afternoon. Saturday night turns sharply colder, dropping near 11 degrees. Snow chances linger into Sunday, especially north of I-80, keeping road conditions unsettled.
The bigger headline arrives with the MLK Day Cold Snap. Arctic air pours in late Sunday night. By early Monday, wind chills may approach 20 below zero, with daytime highs struggling near 10 degrees. Gusty winds add bite, making outdoor exposure dangerous.
Monday night and Tuesday remain brutally cold. Wind chills stay well below zero into Tuesday morning. Schools, commuters, and outdoor plans may feel the strain as extreme cold grips northern Illinois.
Residents should limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and check vehicles before travel. Keep extra time built into commutes, especially through the weekend.
Colder air dominates much of next week, though gradual moderation arrives later. When you stepped outside this morning, did the cold feel sharper than yesterday?
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, IL
- Today: Morning snow, slick roads possible, high near 36
- Saturday: Mostly cloudy, slight snow chance, high near 21
- Sunday: Partly sunny, chance of snow, high near 22
- MLK Day Monday: Very cold and blustery, high near 10
- Tuesday: Cold, partly sunny, high near 20
