Noteworthy Weather Shift in Chicago: Arctic Air and Snowfall Expected
As the Chicago area prepares for a drastic temperature drop, residents are advised to bundle up for the chilly weather ahead. Starting Tuesday, noticeably cooler air will move into the region, followed by a blast of Arctic air and wind chills as low as -20 degrees.
A Closer Look at the Forecast
NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman has been tracking the weather and provides insight into what we can expect. “It’s back,” Roman said, referring to the Arctic air mass moving back into the area. Tuesday’s high temperature of 39 degrees hit at about midnight, with temperatures expected to hover in the low-to-mid 30s for the rest of the day.
Overnight and into Wednesday, temperatures will drop even lower, with highs in the 20s and flurries added into the mix. Roman explained that snowflakes beginning in the west will move eastward through the late morning and early afternoon hours Wednesday, with accumulation expected to be minimal – “not a lot of snow, maybe just a dusting,” Roman said, with at most half-an-inch of snow possible.
Travel Conditions and Safety Tips
While not much accumulation is expected, the band of snow will be accompanied by gusty winds, which could lead to slick travel conditions and low visibility Wednesday afternoon, the National Weather Service warned. As a precaution, it’s essential to check the weather forecast before heading out and to plan for potential delays.
The Arctic Blast: What to Expect
The “Arctic blast” will roar through the area Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning, bringing snow showers, plummeting temperatures, and bitterly cold wind chills ranging from -10 to -20 degrees, according to the NWS. Temperatures will continue to drop overnight Wednesday, plummeting into the single digits, Roman said, with a 20-degree drop expected in just six hours.
Forecast Through the Weekend
The cold Arctic air will continue to stay with us at least through Friday, Roman said. Thursday, high temperatures in the teens are expected, with temperatures improving slightly on Friday, reaching the 30s. However, a wintry mix moving in could bring more chances for snow, Roman warned.
By Sunday, temperatures will rebound into the 40s, marking a return to milder weather. According to Roman, there’s a good probability that between December 16 and 22, we will have above-average temperatures, with average highs typically in the mid-30s this time of year.
Conclusion
As the Chicago area prepares for a significant weather shift, it’s essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety. Whether you’re commuting to work, school, or just enjoying the outdoors, make sure to bundle up and plan for potential delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much snow can we expect?
A: Minimal accumulation is expected, with at most half-an-inch of snow possible.
Q: What are the wind chill temperatures expected?
A: Wind chill temperatures are expected to range from -10 to -20 degrees.
Q: Will the cold weather continue?
A: Yes, the cold Arctic air will continue to stay with us at least through Friday, with temperatures rebounding into the 40s by Sunday.
Q: Are there any safety tips I should know?
A: Yes, be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, plan for potential delays, and dress warmly to stay safe in the cold weather.
