If you thought Thanksgiving week was already chilly, get ready—Chicago weather is about to take a sharp winter turn. After a calm and cold Black Friday, a powerful snowstorm is gearing up to move into the city early Saturday morning, and it could bring more snow than many people expected.
A Winter Storm Warning Is Now in Effect
The National Weather Service has upgraded the earlier Winter Storm Watch to a Winter Storm Warning, starting 3 a.m. Saturday and lasting through 6 a.m. Sunday for most of the Chicago area. Parts of central Illinois and northwest Indiana will see the warning end a bit later, around midnight Sunday.
In simple words: if you need to travel, shop, or head back home after Thanksgiving, plan around the storm. Conditions may change quickly.
When Will the Snow Arrive?
Meteorologists expect the first flakes to fall around 3 or 4 a.m. Saturday, with the heaviest snow coming in the afternoon and early evening. If you’re heading out at that time, be prepared for slippery roads, slower travel, and low visibility.
Some areas near Lake Michigan may see a mix of snow turning into rain Saturday night into early Sunday. This could create slushy, messy streets—so give yourself extra time if you need to drive.
How Much Snow Could Chicago Get?
Right now, forecasts show:
- 5 to 8 inches of snow in Chicago and Northwest Indiana
- 8+ inches possible north and west of the city
For many Chicagoans, this could be the first real “winter shock” of the season. Make sure your snow brush, gloves, and boots are ready to go—you’ll likely need them.
Events Impacted by the Storm
The incoming weather has already caused changes. Several of the IHSA Football State Championship games scheduled for Saturday in Bloomington have been postponed due to the storm. The campus will be closed, so the games will be moved to next week. Updated schedules will be shared by officials soon.
Travelers Should Use Extra Caution
If you’re driving home after Thanksgiving, the Illinois Tollway is urging everyone to slow down, keep extra distance between cars, and be patient. Snow will stick to roads quickly, especially overnight.
The combination of heavy snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures could create difficult—and at times dangerous—conditions across the Midwest and the East Coast.
Cold Temperatures Will Follow
Even after the snow ends Sunday, the cold is here to stay. Overnight lows may drop into the single digits, which could cause icy patches on sidewalks and roads.
chicago weather – Final Thoughts
Chicago weather is about to remind us that winter is officially here. If you’re planning to go out this weekend, keep an eye on updated forecasts, drive safely, and give yourself extra time for any holiday travel. And of course—stay warm!
If you want updates as the storm develops, keep checking local forecasts so you’re always a step ahead of the changing weather. Stay safe, Chicago!
Ammar is a health supplement researcher and experienced review writer with over five years of hands-on experience studying dietary supplements, ingredients, and real user outcomes. He specializes in breaking down complex health topics into simple, honest, and easy-to-understand reviews that help readers make informed decisions.
Over the past five years, Ammar has researched and reviewed dozens of health and wellness supplements, focusing on ingredient transparency, scientific evidence, safety, and realistic expectations. His content is built on careful research, real-world insights, and a commitment to accuracy—always prioritizing reader trust over hype.
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