Winter Weather Update
UPDATE: O’Hare Airport issued a ground stop for departures to Chicago due to snow or ice. The ground stop was in effect until at least 8 a.m., the FAA’s website showed.
Light, scattered snow showers were moving across the Chicago area Friday morning, leading to slick and slippery roads as the snow moves from west to east. This winter weather is expected to cause disruptions to daily commutes and activities, so it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead.
Current Weather Conditions
According to NBC 5 Storm Team 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman, the quick-moving system will last through at least 7 a.m. before moving into northwest Indiana, though snow showers may linger into the afternoon. The snow is expected to be light and scattered, but it can still cause hazardous road conditions, especially during rush hour.
Live Radar
As of 6:25 a.m., Live Doppler 5 radar showed widespread snow across the area, with some heavier to moderate snow at times, especially in Kane, Kendall, and DuPage Counties. The radar also indicated that the snow was moving from west to east, which means that the eastern parts of the Chicago area can expect to see the snow later in the morning.
Additional rounds of snow are expected during the afternoon and evening commute as well, the National Weather Service warned, with “gusty snow showers” possible. This means that drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility and slippery roads during their commutes.
“Take it slow if you encounter snow when driving, including the AM and PM commutes,” the NWS posted. It’s crucial to exercise caution when driving in snowy conditions, as the roads can be unpredictable and hazardous.
Additional rounds of snow are expected across the area today, first in the AM as a band of snow moves through, followed by scattered gusty snow showers later this afternoon and evening. Take it slow if you encounter snow when driving, including the AM and PM commutes! #ILwx #INwx pic.twitter.com/BfB10rSW2K
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) January 16, 2026
Illinois Road Conditions
Roads were slick and slippery with snowflakes Friday morning, especially in parts to the west. The I-90 corridor was particularly affected, with visibility dropping due to heavy snowfall.
“The I-90 corridor is a bit rough this morning, with visibility dropping,” NBC 5 traffic reporter Kye Martin said, as heavy flakes fell in Elgin. “If you’re out in the northwest suburbs, we are seeing some dicey conditions.” Drivers are advised to check the road conditions before embarking on their journeys and to exercise extreme caution when driving.
The morning commute for Friday, Jan. 16 could get dicey as snow across the city and the suburbs continues to fall. Here’s what it looks like on I-90. The state’s “Getting Around Illinois” winter conditions map showed dozens of areas already partly or mostly covered in snow and ice.
Track Illinois road conditions near you here. Staying informed about the road conditions can help you plan your route and avoid any potential hazards.
Winter Weather Preparations
With the winter weather expected to continue throughout the day, it’s essential to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Make sure to check the weather forecast regularly, dress warmly, and plan your commutes accordingly. Additionally, keep an emergency kit in your car, including a first aid kit, flashlight, and snacks, in case you become stranded.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the winter weather in the Chicago area is expected to cause disruptions to daily commutes and activities. It’s crucial to stay informed about the weather conditions, road conditions, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. By exercising caution and planning ahead, you can minimize the risks associated with winter weather and stay safe on the roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current weather condition in the Chicago area?
A: The current weather condition in the Chicago area is light, scattered snow showers moving from west to east, leading to slick and slippery roads.
Q: What is the expected duration of the snowfall?
A: The snowfall is expected to last through at least 7 a.m. before moving into northwest Indiana, though snow showers may linger into the afternoon.
Q: What are the road conditions like?
A: The roads are slick and slippery, especially in parts to the west, with reduced visibility due to heavy snowfall. Drivers are advised to exercise caution when driving.
Q: How can I stay informed about the road conditions?
A: You can track Illinois road conditions near you using the state’s “Getting Around Illinois” winter conditions map or by checking the weather forecast regularly.
Q: What precautions should I take when driving in snowy conditions?
A: You should take it slow, exercise caution, and plan your commutes accordingly. Additionally, keep an emergency kit in your car, including a first aid kit, flashlight, and snacks, in case you become stranded.
