Chicago Schools Cancel Classes Ahead of Major Winter Storm

CHICAGO, IL — A winter storm is expected to hit the Chicago area late Sunday night, prompting multiple school districts to announce closures or switch to e-learning for Monday, November 10, 2025. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Cook, Kankakee, Lake (IL), Lake (IN), Porter, and La Porte counties, where snowfall could exceed 12 inches.

As of Sunday evening, snow was projected to begin falling shortly after 9 p.m., with accumulation rates that could reach 3 inches per hour. Strong winds are expected to accompany the storm, with gusts surpassing 30 mph, which could create whiteout conditions across the region.

Local school districts have begun making adjustments to their schedules. Chicago Public Schools announced it will monitor the weather conditions overnight and may change their plans based on the latest forecasts. Numerous suburban districts, including Aspire Charter Academy in Gary, Indiana, and Thornton Fractional High School District 215, have confirmed shifts to remote learning.

Gary Community School Corporation is delaying classes by two hours, while other districts, like City of Hobart Schools and Lake Station Community Schools, opted for full closures. Road conditions are expected to deteriorate, making travel hazardous during the Monday morning commute.

The winter storm is the first significant snowfall the Chicago area has seen this season, leading many residents to prepare for difficult driving conditions. “I have my jacket and my scarf, and I’m still not ready for it,” said Laura Klein, a local resident. “I think it’s a little bit too early for snow.”

Officials advise residents to remain vigilant and cautious while traveling during the storm. The City of Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation has deployed salt-spreader trucks in anticipation of severe weather hazards. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about changing weather conditions and school announcements.

As the storm approaches, locals brace for a long winter ahead, reminding all that snowfall in November can be a challenging adjustment.