Chicago, IL – Northern Illinois is preparing for a burst of winter weather from November 28–30 as Arctic air sweeps across the Great Lakes, triggering lake-effect snow and bitter cold through Black Friday weekend. Heavy snow showers may create slick conditions for drivers across the Chicago area and west toward Rockford.
The National Weather Service in Chicago reports a moderate risk of heavy snow across far northern Illinois as strong northwest winds pull moisture from Lake Michigan late Friday through Saturday. The most intense snowfall is expected near the lakefront and in McHenry and Lake Counties, where localized totals could reach 4–8 inches. Wind gusts up to 35 mph may lead to reduced visibility, drifting snow, and dangerously cold wind chills.
The Illinois Department of Transportation warns that travel may become hazardous along I-90, I-94, and I-88, especially late Friday into Saturday morning. Drivers should be ready for changing conditions, icy bridges, and delays on major routes through Chicago and its suburbs. Air travelers could also see de-icing delays at O’Hare and Midway…