Warmer Temps, Snow to Come This Weekend

Following record-breaking temperatures Thursday in what was the coldest day of the year so far, things look to warm up slightly Friday with temps in the single digits and wind chill values from -10 to -20 degrees in the Chicago area.

 

The day started off with dangerously cold weather, but Wind Chill Advisories in the Chicago area expired at 8 a.m.

 

Skies stay cloudy for most of the day with the potential for light snow to develop during the late morning hours and into the afternoon. The snow showers are expected to end later in the evening, leaving anywhere from a dusting to a half-inch.

 

The area could see some relief with afternoon temperatures reaching into the upper teens and  low 20s, but the temperatures won’t feel too balmy as wind gusts up to 25 mph will make the air seem much colder.

 

The weekend won't be as cold as recent days, but the National Weather Service warns of snow covered and slippery roadways leading to reduced visibility.

 

Saturday looks to be cloudy with periods of light snow and highs in the upper 20s to low 30s. Snow totals could range from an inch in areas north of Interstate 80 to 2 to 4 inches south of I-80.

 

The Illinois Department of Transportation said a winter storm producing measurable snowfall and freezing rain in parts of Illinois Friday night and Saturday could create hazardous travel conditions.

“Our crews are prepared for this latest round of winter weather and will be working hard to clear the roads,” Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn said in a statement. “Motorists can help us by driving only if it is necessary during winter storms and taking it slow on the roads.”

 

Temperatures are expected to drop Sunday with morning highs in the mid-teens falling by the afternoon. A few lake effect snow showers are expected in the Michiana snow belts on Sunday as well as another round of bitter cold starts off the week.