Chicago, IL – A sharp blast of winter has settled over the region, tightening its grip as another round of snow lines up for the weekend. Wind chills near zero greeted residents early Friday, and forecasters say the cold pattern will hold long enough to create slick travel conditions by late Saturday night into Sunday. Up to two inches of accumulation is possible across the metro area, with lake enhancement adding to totals near the shoreline.
Early Winter Conditions Grip the Region
The National Weather Service Chicago/Romeoville office reports that patchy freezing fog and subzero wind chills continued through the morning, especially west of I-55. Temperatures will struggle to rise beyond the upper 20s today, setting the stage for another Arctic surge tonight and into the weekend. These colder conditions will prime road surfaces for ice as the first flakes begin to fall.
Snow Expected Saturday Night Through Sunday
Forecasters anticipate snow showers developing after dark on Saturday as a moisture-laden system enters northern Illinois. The heaviest periods are expected Sunday morning into early afternoon, with 1–2 inches of accumulation likely across Cook, DuPage, Will, and Lake counties. Closer to Lake Michigan, bands of lake-effect snow may briefly intensify visibility reductions and add a localized coating on untreated pavement.
Travel Impacts Across Major Interstates
Drivers on I-90, I-94, I-290, and I-355 should prepare for slowed traffic, slick overpasses, and reduced visibility as snowfall increases Sunday. Bridges and ramps are expected to freeze faster than side streets, and transportation crews will be monitoring conditions throughout the afternoon. As snow tapers Sunday evening, temperatures dropping back into the teens could cause quick refreezing on untreated stretches.
Winter Pattern Holds Into the New Week
Cold air remains firmly in place through early next week, with highs staying in the mid-20s to low-30s. Light snow chances reappear Tuesday and Wednesday as another weak disturbance passes over the Great Lakes. Meteorologists note that long-range guidance hints at a stronger clipper system sometime between December 11 and 17, which could deliver a more widespread round of accumulating snow during the early holiday travel rush.
Five-Day Forecast for Chicago, IL
Below is the latest overview of expected temperatures and conditions:
| Day | High/Low | Forecast |
|---|---|---|
| Friday | 28° / 27° | Partly sunny; bitter wind chills early |
| Saturday | 28° / 22° | Mostly cloudy; snow developing late night |
| Sunday | 30° / 15° | Snow likely; 1–2 inches possible |
| Monday | 24° / 18° | Partly sunny; lingering icy patches |
| Tuesday | 30° / 20° | Mostly cloudy; light snow chance |
Residents Urged to Prepare for Bitter Cold and Slippery Roads
Officials advise dressing in insulated layers, covering exposed skin, and allowing extra travel time during the Sunday event. Car owners should check tire tread, antifreeze levels, wipers, and defrosters ahead of the weekend system. Pet owners are urged to limit outdoor exposure and provide warm shelter.
As winter conditions settle in, staying alert to updated forecasts and local advisories will be essential. Plan ahead, stay cautious on the roads, and take necessary steps to keep your household safe through the incoming round of snow and cold.
