Arctic cold front sends temperatures plummeting in Chicago amid snow, gusty winds
CHICAGO (CBS) — An arctic cold front is making its presence felt across the region, sending temperatures tumbling overnight.
On Wednesday evening, the front unleashed powerful wind gusts, reaching up to 62 mph in Gary, and 58 mph in Aurora and at Midway International Airport.
In addition to the gusty winds, the cold front has brought widely scattered snow showers, leading to the potential for light accumulations in some areas as temperatures drop.
As these fast-moving snow squalls pass through, concerns about slick spots and reduced visibility prompted official weather warnings.
At 9:50 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued a snow squall warning for eastern DuPage and central and southern Cook counties until 10:15 p.m. A dangerous snow squall extending from Hanover Park to Stickney was moving southeast at 30 mph.
The NWS warned that gusty winds and blowing snow could cause a rapid and dangerous drop in visibility.
Another snow squall warning was issued until 11:15 p.m. for northeastern Will, southeastern DuPage, and southeastern Cook counties in Illinois, and Lake County in Indiana.
While a few gusty snow showers may persist through the night, the best chance for snow on Thursday morning will shift to La Porte County, Indiana.
Wind chills Thursday morning will be very cold, between -5 and -15 degrees.
Thursday afternoon will remain brisk, with highs struggling to climb out of the 20s. Gusty winds will keep wind chills in the teens, even with sunshine returning.
After a cold start to the weekend, temperatures will rebound—rising into the 40s on Saturday and reaching the 50s by Sunday.
The next weather system arrives Sunday night into Monday, bringing a chance of rain, followed by another cooldown by midweek.
