Chicago, Illinois – Bitter cold, accumulating snow, and growing river ice are combining to create hazardous conditions across northern Illinois, with impacts expected to linger through the weekend and into early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, prolonged cold temperatures have caused extensive ice formation on rivers, increasing the risk for isolated ice jams, especially along the Rock, Fox, and Kankakee rivers. An ice jam is already affecting the Kankakee River at Momence, where elevated water levels could lead to localized flooding of low-lying roads, wetlands, and agricultural land with little warning.
Wind chills early Saturday dropped as low as 25 to 30 below zero across much of the region, prompting a Cold Weather Advisory through midday. Officials warn that frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Residents are urged to dress in layers, protect pets, and check on vulnerable neighbors.
Snow is expected to spread across the region late Saturday and continue through Sunday, with 2 to 5 inches possible, especially east of Interstate 55. Travel may become hazardous on bridges and untreated roads in areas including Cook, Will, DuPage, Kankakee, and Livingston counties.
The cold pattern holds into next week, keeping river ice locked in place. Additional advisories or flood statements may be issued as conditions evolve.
