It’s about to get icy, and not in a fun, winter wonderland kind of way. A dangerous ice storm is moving in, and the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory until 6:00 AM CST Thursday, February 6. If you’ve ever experienced black ice, you know how quickly things can go wrong. Freezing rain will coat roads, sidewalks, and bridges, making your morning commute a slippery, risky ordeal. And with power outages also a possibility, it’s time to prepare.
This isn’t the kind of winter weather you can just brush off. Here’s what to expect and how to stay safe.
Today’s Forecast (Thursday, February 6): Cold, Cloudy, and Slippery
The morning will be chilly and overcast, with temperatures hovering around 28°F (-2°C). Freezing rain will create dangerous conditions during the early morning hours, particularly on bridges and overpasses. As the day progresses, there’s some relief in sight—clouds will begin to clear, and the sun will come out by the afternoon, with temperatures warming to 41°F (5°C).
But don’t relax just yet. Once the sun sets, temperatures will drop to 21°F (-6°C), and any melted ice will refreeze, making the evening and overnight hours just as dangerous. If you’re heading out early Friday morning, be prepared for more icy patches.
A Look Ahead: More Winter Weather Is Coming
- Friday, February 7: Expect a mix of clouds and sun, with daytime highs around 33°F (0°C) and lows near 29°F (-2°C).
- Saturday, February 8: Another messy day, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain expected in the morning. Untreated roads will be slick, so drive carefully. Highs will reach 35°F (2°C), with lows dipping to 22°F (-5°C).
- Sunday, February 9: Mostly cloudy, with temperatures hovering around 32°F (0°C) and lows near 24°F (-4°C).
- Monday, February 10: Overcast skies will continue, with highs of 34°F (1°C) and nighttime lows around 21°F (-6°C).
Why Ice Storms Are So Dangerous
Unlike a snowstorm, which you can see piling up, an ice storm is sneaky. Freezing rain forms a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice on the ground, making it incredibly easy to slip or lose control while driving. Black ice, in particular, is a major concern—it’s called “black” because it blends in with the road, making it nearly impossible to spot until you’re sliding across it.
Bridges and overpasses are some of the most dangerous spots because they freeze faster than regular roads. Cold air circulates both above and below them, which means icy patches form there first. Even if the road leading up to a bridge looks fine, don’t assume you’re in the clear—slow down.
There’s also the risk of power outages. Freezing rain can coat tree branches and power lines, weighing them down until they snap. If that happens, entire neighborhoods could be left in the dark for hours or even longer.
Why the Timing Makes It Worse
This storm couldn’t come at a worse time. Freezing rain will fall overnight, coating surfaces by the time most people are waking up and heading out for their morning commute. That means roads, sidewalks, and driveways could already be dangerously icy before anyone realizes it. Even after the morning ice begins to melt, refreezing is expected overnight, making Friday morning just as risky.
How to Stay Safe During the Ice Storm
- Drive Slowly and Carefully: Ice patches are often invisible, so reduce your speed and leave plenty of room between you and the car ahead.
- Avoid Sudden Braking: If you hit a patch of ice, don’t slam on the brakes. Instead, ease off the gas and steer gently in the direction you want to go.
- Be Cautious on Bridges and Overpasses: These areas freeze first and are often the most dangerous during ice storms.
- Watch Your Step: Sidewalks, stairs, and driveways can be just as hazardous as roads. Wear boots with good traction, and take small, careful steps.
- Prepare for Power Outages: Charge your devices, and have flashlights, batteries, and blankets ready in case you lose power.
When Will Things Get Better?
Some of the ice will start to melt as temperatures rise this afternoon, but don’t get too comfortable. With another drop in temperatures overnight, refreezing is likely, and black ice could be a problem again Friday morning. The weekend isn’t looking much better, with another round of snow, sleet, and freezing rain expected on Saturday.
If you have travel plans this weekend, stay updated on the latest weather reports and road conditions. You may need to adjust your schedule or avoid traveling altogether if conditions become too dangerous.
The Bottom Line
Ice storms may not get as much attention as blizzards, but they’re just as dangerous—if not more so. A thin layer of ice can turn even a short drive into a nightmare, and slipping on an icy sidewalk could lead to serious injuries. Take this storm seriously, give yourself extra time to get where you need to go, and avoid unnecessary trips if possible.
With more winter weather on the way, it’s a good idea to stock up on essentials and keep your emergency supplies ready. Stay safe, Chicago, and don’t let this ice storm catch you off guard!
