Winter Storm Hits US: Chicago Faces Lake-Effect Snow and Dangerous Wind Chill

Chicago is currently experiencing extreme winter weather as a significant storm sweeps across the United States. As temperatures plummet, the city faces dangerous wind chills and the threat of heavy snowfall.

Weather Conditions and Warnings

This weekend, temperatures in Chicago are between -3 to -11 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind chills are expected to reach between -20 to -25 degrees. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until noon on Saturday.

Meteorologists predict a slight rise in temperature later today. However, residents should anticipate the onset of snow between Saturday evening and Sunday. Up to 6 inches may accumulate in some areas.

Advisories in Effect

• A Winter Weather Advisory will activate from 6 p.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday.
• The advisory covers Cook, Lake (IL), DuPage, Kendall, Grundy, Kankakee, Will, and Livingston counties.
• Newton and Jasper counties are under the advisory from 6 p.m. Saturday to 9 p.m. Sunday.
• Lake (IN) and Porter counties will remain under the advisory until midnight Sunday, while LaPorte County is affected from 7 p.m. Saturday to 1 a.m. Sunday.

The lake-effect snow is predicted to create a sudden cutoff in snowfall amounts. Areas adjacent to Lake Michigan might receive 5 to 6 inches, while locations as close as 10 to 20 miles away can expect less than an inch of snow.

Travel Impact

Travel disruptions are widespread due to winter weather conditions. Nationwide, over 8,000 flights have already been canceled this weekend. In Chicago, close to 200 flights at O’Hare International Airport and about 30 at Midway Airport have been affected.

States of Emergency

At least 17 states have declared states of emergency in anticipation of this winter storm, which could bring ice, freezing rain, and severe cold temperatures. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been coordinating with airlines and airports for preparedness against the storm’s impact.

Authorities are advising residents in affected areas, including those traveling from New Mexico to the Northeast, to avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve. Airport closures and passenger inconveniences are also under consideration as the FAA engages in recovery efforts, including snow removal and de-icing of planes.

As this winter storm continues, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the ongoing extreme weather conditions. Next week is expected to remain cold in Chicago.