Chicago is about to get buried in a snowstorm, and the city is already shutting down.
Schools are closing, roads are expected to be a nightmare, and if you were planning to go anywhere Wednesday, you might want to rethink that.
What’s Coming
The National Weather Service has slapped a Winter Weather Advisory on the area from 9 a.m. Wednesday to 3 a.m. Thursday. Snow will start light in the morning but will pick up fast, dumping 3 to 6 inches across Chicagoland.
- Peak snowfall between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- Rates could hit an inch per hour
- Roads will be slick, icy, and slow-moving
- Thursday morning will be freezing, with temps in the teens
Translation: if you don’t need to be outside, don’t be.
Schools Are Shutting Down
With roads about to turn into an ice rink, schools aren’t taking any chances. Many are closed or switching to E-learning. That means students get to sleep in, while parents and teachers prepare for another day of Zoom calls and lagging Wi-Fi.
If you need to check if your school is closed, head over to Emergency Closing Center for a full list.
Travel is Going to Be a Disaster
Wednesday’s commute is looking rough. With snow rates climbing and visibility dropping, expect a slow and slippery drive. Even after the snow stops, roads will still be messy, especially side streets and untreated areas.
If you must drive:
- Leave extra time – everything will take longer
- Drive slow – ice and slush will make stopping a challenge
- Keep your gas tank full – just in case you get stuck
And There’s More Coming
Just when you thought it was over, another storm is forming for the weekend. Forecasters are already watching a system that could bring more snow and even colder temperatures.
So if you’re tired of winter, bad news – it’s just getting started.
How to Prep
Here’s how to make it through the next 48 hours:
- Charge your devices – power outages aren’t expected, but better safe than sorry
- Stock up on essentials – coffee, snacks, and a solid Wi-Fi connection
- Stay inside if possible – the roads will be a mess
- Dress for the Arctic – it’s going to be brutally cold
Stay warm, stay safe, and if you’re lucky enough to get a snow day, enjoy it while it lasts.
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