Chicago Braces for Major Snowstorm — Winter Storm Warning
As holiday travelers return home, Chicago’s forecast has taken a stark turn: a powerful winter storm is on track to bring heavy snowfall and difficult travel across the region. The latest from local meteorologists and the National Weather Service (NWS) signals serious disruption for commuters and holiday-goers alike.
What’s Happening — Snowstorm Expected This Weekend
- The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning covering northern and northeastern Illinois — including Chicago — with snow expected to begin about 3 a.m. Saturday and continue through early Sunday.
- Forecasts call for 6 to 10 inches of snow, with some locations (especially northwest of the city, toward the Ottawa–Waukegan area) possibly seeing higher totals.
- Snow could begin with light flurries late Friday night, but the heaviest snowfall is expected Saturday morning through afternoon — a window coinciding with a key travel period for many returning from Thanksgiving plans.
- Winds shifting may create slushy drifts and lowered visibility, especially near lake-front areas, raising concerns about slippery roads and hazardous driving conditions.
According to forecasts, snow may taper off late Saturday or early Sunday, but slick roads and icy patches could linger well into Sunday morning as temperatures remain near freezing.
Chicago Weather Outlook — What to Expect
If you’ve recently searched terms like “Chicago weather forecast”, “Chicago weather 10 day”, “Chicago weather radar”, or “Chicago weather hourly,” here’s a snapshot of what lies ahead for the next several days:
- Saturday (Snowstorm Day): Snow begins early morning, becoming heavy by late morning; total accumulation likely between 6–10 inches (possibly more in some suburbs). Low visibility and slippery roads expected.
- Saturday Night ➜ Sunday Morning: Snow tapering off, but roads remain slick; flurries possible in the afternoon.
- Sunday Onward: Temperatures hovering around freezing — a second cold push may arrive early next week, possibly bringing more snow chances between December 2–6.
Residents using “Chicago weather radar” may want to keep an eye on updates throughout Saturday morning — radar imagery will likely show heavy snowbands moving through the region.
Travel, Traffic & Safety — What Chicagoans Should Know
Given the timing of the storm (right after Thanksgiving), transportation authorities are sounding alarms:
- Roadways including major interstates (I-90, I-94, I-55) and expressways (Stevenson, Edens) may become treacherous quickly as snow accumulates and visibility falls. Country Herald+1
- Driving conditions may degrade rapidly after sunrise Saturday — motorists are urged to allow extra travel time, reduce speed, and consider postponing non-essential travel if possible. WBEZ+1
- Those returning from holiday trips are especially at risk, as icy roads and drifting snow could lead to delays, accidents, or even temporary closures in certain areas.
Public transit riders should also brace for possible delays or disruptions — heavy lake-effect snow and wind gusts near the lakefront could affect commuter trains, buses, and flight schedules at airports like O’Hare and Midway.
Why This Storm Is Significant — Early Season, High Impact
This snowstorm is part of a broader shift: following a relatively mild start to November, Chicago is now entering a cold-front phase that brings lake-effect snow, plummeting temperatures, and increased chance of follow-up winter events.
Earlier this month (Nov 9–11), the region already experienced record lake-effect snow across suburbs and pocket-heavy snowbands near the Great Lakes — a preview of more intense winter weather to come.
With average December weather typically featuring snow and freezing temperatures, this weekend’s storm could mark the real start of the 2025–26 winter season in Chicago, setting the tone for the coming months.
Tips for Residents & Travelers — Stay Safe This Weekend
If you live in Chicago or plan to travel there this weekend — whether by car, train, or plane — here are some practical tips given the forecast and upcoming snowstorm:
- Monitor Chicago weather radar and hourly forecasts — snow intensity and wind shifts may change quickly.
- If possible, delay travel until Sunday or after roads are cleared and treated.
- Keep emergency supplies (blankets, warm clothes, flashlights) in your car if you must drive.
- Allow extra travel time — and drive slowly, especially on highways and bridges.
- For transit users, check flight/bus/train status early Saturday morning — delays or cancellations are possible due to snow and low visibility.
- Keep pets and elderly family members safe indoors; cold winds + wet snow can make outdoor conditions dangerous.
Conclusion — Winter Returns to Chicago With a Bang
For those searching “Chicago IL weather”, “Chicago weather today”, or “Chicago weather this weekend” — the message is clear: this Thanksgiving weekend will likely be the city’s first major snow event of the season.
With 6–10 inches of snow expected (possibly more in suburbs), hazardous driving, and potential travel disruptions — Chicagoans are being warned to treat the next 24–36 hours seriously.
If you’re in or heading to Chicago soon, keep checking the latest forecasts, watch radar, and stay updated on warnings from the National Weather Service and local news channels like NBC Chicago / ABC7 Chicago.
Stay warm, stay safe — and be prepared.
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