Chicago, Illinois – Winter weather is making its presence felt across the Chicago metro Monday as powerful winds and blowing snow combine to create hazardous conditions during a busy year-end travel period. Residents woke to rattling windows, snapping flags, and light snow skittering across pavement as cold air and strong west winds swept through northeast Illinois.
Wind Advisory in Effect Across Northeast Illinois
As of Monday morning, a Wind Advisory remains in effect for Chicago and surrounding areas, including much of northeast Illinois. Forecasters expect wind gusts between 45 and 55 mph through mid-afternoon, with the strongest bursts likely near the Indiana border and along the Lake Michigan shoreline. While snowfall amounts remain light, the strength of the wind is the primary concern, turning minor snow into widespread blowing and drifting.
Meteorologists warn that even brief snow showers can sharply reduce visibility when combined with these winds, especially in open areas and along elevated roadways.
Blowing Snow Creates Travel Hazards
Blowing snow is creating slick patches on untreated surfaces, particularly bridges, overpasses, and ramps that cool faster than surrounding roads. Drivers may encounter sudden changes in road conditions, where pavement appears dry one moment and icy the next.
Major routes that could see slowdowns include I-90, I-94, I-290, and Lake Shore Drive, especially during bursts of snow and peak wind gusts. High-profile vehicles such as delivery trucks, vans, and semi-trailers are at greater risk of being pushed by strong crosswinds, particularly during the late-morning and early-afternoon travel window.
Cold Temperatures Add to the Impact
Temperatures remain firmly in winter territory, with highs struggling to reach 24 degrees. When combined with strong winds, wind chills hover near zero at times, making outdoor exposure uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for those not properly dressed.
City officials and weather experts advise residents to secure loose items such as holiday decorations, trash bins, and outdoor furniture before winds peak. Unsecured objects can become airborne hazards under gusts exceeding 50 mph.
Aviation and Transit Considerations
Strong winds can also disrupt air and rail travel. Gusty crosswinds may cause minor flight delays at area airports, while blowing snow can affect visibility during takeoff and landing. Commuters using public transit should plan for possible delays, particularly on elevated tracks and platforms exposed to the wind.
Conditions Improve Gradually Monday Night
Winds are expected to slowly ease Monday evening and overnight as the weather system moves east. However, cold air will remain in place, allowing any snowmelt to refreeze overnight. Drivers heading out late should stay alert for icy patches, especially in shaded areas and along lesser-traveled roads.
Midweek Outlook: Another Snow Chance Before New Year’s Eve
Tuesday brings a brief break from the wind, with calmer conditions and increasing clouds. Highs rebound slightly to around 29 degrees, offering a quieter day for travel and errands.
By Wednesday, clouds thicken again as another system approaches the region. Forecasters indicate a renewed chance of snow late Wednesday into Wednesday night, potentially impacting travel just ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations. While significant accumulation is not guaranteed, even light snow could cause problems given the cold ground and lingering icy spots.
New Year’s Day Forecast: Cold but Quiet
Looking ahead to New Year’s Day 2026, conditions trend cold but dry across Chicago and much of Illinois. Highs near 20 degrees and lighter winds should make for calmer holiday plans, though lingering snowbanks and repeated freeze-thaw cycles could leave slick areas on sidewalks and parking lots.
Late-week travel may still require caution as drifting snow and refreezing continue to pose localized hazards.
Five-Day Outlook for Chicago, Illinois
- Monday: Windy with snow showers, gusts 45–55 mph, high 24
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy and calmer, high 29
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, chance of snow late, high 32
- New Year’s Day: Mostly sunny and cold, high 20
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, low near 14
Staying Safe During Wind and Snow Events
Weather officials recommend slowing down while driving, increasing following distance, and being prepared for sudden visibility changes. Pedestrians should watch for icy sidewalks, while homeowners should check outdoor items that could be blown loose.
As Illinois heads into the final days of the year, staying weather-aware will be key to safe travel and holiday plans.
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