Chicago, IL – A light round of snow and patchy freezing drizzle will continue across the Chicago area through early evening, setting the stage for a much more impactful shot of arctic air arriving later tonight. The National Weather Service warns that temperatures will plunge rapidly after sunset, with wind chills dropping to between -5°F and -15°F overnight.
A dusting to up to half an inch of snow is possible, and any freezing drizzle—mainly south of the Kankakee River—may create slick spots on untreated pavement. Drivers are urged to allow extra time and use caution during the afternoon and early evening commute.
Behind the cold front, the real story becomes the dangerously cold air settling in across northern Illinois.
Wind chills Thursday morning may remain between -5°F and -15°F, with daytime highs struggling to reach the teens and lower 20s. Some moderation is expected by Friday and Saturday, but another push of cold arrives by the weekend with overnight lows around -3°F in portions of the region. Subzero wind chills are likely to return Saturday night into early Sunday.
Despite the bitter cold, most of the weekend appears dry with only a slight chance of light snow Friday night or early Saturday.
Residents are encouraged to:
- Limit time outdoors during late-night and early-morning hours
- Dress in layers, covering exposed skin
- Prepare homes and vehicles for the prolonged cold stretch
Dangerous wind chills can cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 20–30 minutes.
More updates will be issued as the arctic air settles in.
