Chicago residents, get ready for a slippery, icy mess today as a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued, warning of dangerous freezing drizzle that could turn roads and sidewalks into pure ice. If you’re planning to head out, think twice—untreated surfaces may become dangerously slick, creating major travel hazards.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has confirmed that light freezing rain will begin late this morning and continue into the evening, leaving up to one-tenth of an inch of ice on roads, sidewalks, and overpasses. This might not sound like much, but even a thin layer of ice can cause crashes, slips, and severe disruptions to travel.
How Bad Will This Ice Storm Be?
This isn’t just another cold winter day—this storm has the potential to create serious safety risks:
- Dangerous Roads & Sidewalks: Icy conditions will make driving and walking extremely hazardous. Expect black ice on bridges, overpasses, and untreated streets.
- Flight & Commute Disruptions: Airports may experience delays or cancellations due to icy runways. Public transit could also slow down, so plan extra travel time.
- Slips & Falls Risk: Sidewalks and driveways will become slick, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Salt your walkways and use extreme caution.
- Cold, Windy Conditions: With temperatures hovering around 30°F (-1°C), the ice will stick around for most of the day before slightly improving by evening.
Chicago Weather Forecast: When Will Conditions Improve?
- Saturday, February 8: Freezing drizzle and ice accumulation throughout the day. Cloudy and breezy, high 34°F (1°C), low 23°F (-5°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Mostly cloudy but dry, with a high of 31°F (-1°C) and low of 20°F (-7°C).
- Monday, February 10: Turning cloudy with a high of 34°F (1°C), low of 21°F (-6°C).
- Tuesday, February 11: Another round of snow showers possible in the afternoon. Breezy with a high of 27°F (-3°C), low of 21°F (-6°C).
- Wednesday, February 12: More snow and flurries likely, turning windy with a high of 26°F (-4°C), low of 16°F (-9°C).
- Thursday, February 13: Bitter cold continues, with clouds giving way to some sun. High 22°F (-5°C), low 16°F (-9°C).
- Friday, February 14: Cloudy and slightly warmer with a high of 28°F (-2°C), low of 27°F (-3°C).
How to Stay Safe in These Icy Conditions
Drive With Extreme Caution – If you must go out, reduce speed, avoid sudden braking, and keep extra distance between vehicles.
Avoid Walking on Icy Surfaces – Sidewalks, stairs, and driveways will be extremely slippery. Wear shoes with good traction and use handrails when possible.
Check Flights & Transit Before You Go – Airlines and public transit services may experience delays due to ice-covered roads and runways.
Salt & Sand Walkways – If you’re a homeowner, lay down salt or sand on sidewalks and driveways to prevent accidents.
Stay Updated – Monitor local weather updates for any changes in the forecast or worsening conditions.
Final Thoughts—How Long Will This Icy Nightmare Last?
While this ice storm won’t last forever, its impacts will be felt all day long. Roads and sidewalks may remain slick until temperatures slightly rise Sunday afternoon. Chicagoans should stay indoors as much as possible, take precautions when traveling, and be ready for another blast of winter weather next week
