A dangerous winter storm is set to make its way into Chicago tonight, bringing freezing rain, icy roads, and treacherous travel conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory from 6:00 PM Wednesday until 6:00 AM Thursday, warning residents about potentially hazardous ice accumulations.
What to Expect
Chicagoans can expect freezing rain and freezing drizzle throughout the evening, with ice buildup of up to one-tenth of an inch in some areas. While that may not sound like much, it’s enough to turn roads, sidewalks, and bridges into ice rinks overnight.
As temperatures hover around 25°F (-4°C) to 30°F (-1°C), even a slight amount of ice could cause major travel disruptions across the city. Bridges and overpasses will be especially slick, and black ice could make driving extremely dangerous.
Your Hour-by-Hour Forecast
- Tonight (Wednesday, February 5): Cloudy skies with light snow, sleet, and freezing rain in the evening. Temperatures will hover near 30°F (-1°C) before dipping overnight.
- Thursday, February 6: The storm moves out, but icy conditions will linger into the morning. Temperatures will rise to 41°F (5°C) by midday, melting some of the ice.
- Friday, February 7: A mix of sun and clouds, with a high of 31°F (-1°C) and a chilly low of 29°F (-2°C).
- Saturday, February 8: Another round of ice and rain is expected, making travel difficult once again. Highs will reach 35°F (2°C), before dropping to 25°F (-4°C) overnight.
- Sunday, February 9: The storm clears out, with partly sunny skies and a high near 32°F (0°C).
How to Stay Safe
- Drive with caution: Roads will be slick, especially before sunrise. Avoid unnecessary travel and slow down if you must go out.
- Watch your step: Sidewalks and driveways could be coated in invisible black ice—wear shoes with good traction.
- Check for delays: Flights and public transport may be affected. Plan for extra travel time and stay updated on cancellations.
- Keep warm: Wind chills will make it feel even colder, so bundle up in layers if you’re heading outside.
When Will the Ice Melt?
Thursday afternoon will bring some relief as temperatures rise above freezing, but another round of ice and rain could hit on Saturday. The weekend isn’t looking much better, so Chicagoans should prepare for more wintry trouble ahead.
Stay safe, stay warm, and if you don’t have to go out tonight—don’t risk it