Chicago Weather Forecast: Snowfall Expected to Impact Rush Hours, But Accumulations Limited
Clouds will lower and thicken on Thursday, bringing fairly windy and seasonably chilly conditions to Chicago. Snow develops in the afternoon, but marginal temperatures will limit any accumulations.
Winds from the south are expected to blow between 15-25 MPH, with gusts accompanying the snowfall. The snowfall is expected to be more widespread and may impact two rush hours: Thursday evening and Friday morning. Snowfall should end for most areas later Friday morning, but some additional snow showers are expected in portions of the Indiana snowbelt.
Looking Ahead
The winter solstice is Saturday, bringing the shortest day and longest night of the year to the Northern Hemisphere. Our explainer provides insight into the solstice and equinox, and how the Earth’s march around the sun splits up the year.
Getting to your Christmas Day destinations should not be an issue. Conditions will be mild by December standards, with no precipitation and temperatures well above freezing.
Current Conditions
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- [Extended 7-Day Forecast]
- [Current Temperatures]
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FAQs
Q: What is the expected snow accumulation?
A: Many areas will receive 1-2 inches, with localized areas potentially picking up 3 inches.
Q: When will the snowfall end?
A: Snowfall should end for most areas later Friday morning, but some additional snow showers are expected in portions of the Indiana snowbelt.
Q: Can I expect any issues getting to my Christmas Day destinations?
A: No, conditions will be mild by December standards, with no precipitation and temperatures well above freezing.
Q: What is the winter solstice, and how does it affect the Earth’s orbit?
A: The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The Earth’s march around the sun causes the seasons, with the solstice marking the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
