Snow and Winds Threaten Travel in Chicago Area on Friday

CHICAGO, Ill. — Commuters in the Chicago area should prepare for challenging weather conditions on Friday, March 7, as a series of snow bands are expected to sweep through the region. According to the NBC 5 Storm Team, scattered snow showers may begin early Friday morning, impacting roadways and visibility during the morning commute.

Temperatures are forecasted to remain just above freezing, which may lead to a mix of rain and snow, particularly in the southern suburbs. Areas farther north, however, could experience significant snowfall through the afternoon. Snowfall may reach 1 to 2 inches near the Wisconsin–Illinois boundary, while those south of the city could see lower accumulations of approximately half an inch.

Officials warn that while snow might not fully stick to the ground, conditions will still create slick spots and reduced visibility. “Even transient snow can lead to hazardous driving conditions,” said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service. “Travelers should exercise caution, particularly on bridges and overpasses where ice is likely to form.”

In addition to snow, wind gusts exceeding 45 mph are anticipated, particularly along Lake Michigan, which could lead to lakeshore flooding in northwest Indiana. The storm is expected to taper off by Friday evening with clearer skies leading into the weekend, although temperatures will remain on the cooler side, hovering in the upper 30s and low 40s.

Residents are urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts as the weekend approaches. Sunday is expected to see a slight warmup, with highs in the 50s, before plunging back to slightly cooler temperatures by the end of next week. “Prepare for changing weather conditions and take the necessary precautions,” said meteorologists from NBC 5.

For real-time weather alerts and updates, residents can download the NBC Chicago app, which offers live radar and forecasts to help keep commuters informed.