Full Breakdown
Chicago Faces Severe Weather: Snow and Bitter Cold Expected
3/17/2026, 12:09:11 PM
Overview of the Weather Forecast
Chicago is bracing for a significant drop in temperatures and the return of winter weather this week, following a series of storms that began on Sunday. The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a dramatic temperature decline of up to 50 degrees over two days, with highs in the mid-60s on Sunday plummeting to lows around 10 degrees by Monday night. The transition from rain to snow is expected as temperatures fall, with patchy blowing snow anticipated early Monday morning.
Weather Advisory and Impacts
A winter weather advisory has been issued for most of the Chicago area, including southern Cook County and several counties in Illinois and Indiana, such as McHenry, DeKalb, Kane, LaSalle, and Porter. The advisory remains in effect until midnight, warning residents of hazardous driving conditions due to blowing and drifting snow, particularly on north-south roadways. Visibility may be severely limited, with near whiteout conditions possible.
Expected Weather Patterns
According to meteorologist Zachary Yack from the NWS, the extreme temperature fluctuations are typical for mid-March. Following the initial storm system, colder weather is expected to persist through Tuesday, with highs only reaching the mid-20s. Another round of light snow may occur Tuesday night into Wednesday, although significant accumulation is not anticipated. By Wednesday, temperatures are projected to rise back into the 40s, with a potential return to the 60s by Thursday.
Official Statements & Responses
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago has advised residents to limit water usage to mitigate flooding risks associated with the storms. Recommended measures include delaying showers and baths, flushing toilets less frequently, and postponing the use of dishwashers and washing machines.
Criticism & Opposition
While the weather advisory highlights the potential dangers of the upcoming weather, some residents have expressed frustration over the unpredictability of spring weather in Chicago. The rapid changes in temperature and precipitation patterns have led to concerns about preparedness and the adequacy of local infrastructure to handle such extreme conditions.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The system is a very strong cold front that’s going to move through the area tonight,” — Zachary Yack, Meteorologist, National Weather Service
- “As a result, blowing and drifting snow could occur, especially in more open areas, and roadways could quickly become snow-covered, causing hazardous driving conditions.” — National Weather Service Advisory
- “The extreme temperature variations this week are typical of weather patterns in mid-March, Yack said.” — Zachary Yack, Meteorologist, National Weather Service
What's Next
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts from local news outlets and the NWS as conditions evolve. The NBC 5 Storm Team encourages the use of their app for real-time weather alerts to ensure safety during this unpredictable weather period.
