Winter storm brings significant travel disruptions to Chicago area

On February 12, 2025, a winter storm is set to impact the Chicago area, prompting several school districts to either close or shift to e-learning due to the dangerous conditions expected. The winter weather advisory issued for the region is in effect from 9 a.m. Wednesday until 3 a.m. Thursday. The forecast predicts that the heaviest snowfall will occur between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with some areas possibly experiencing lake-enhanced bursts of snow, resulting in accumulation rates that could exceed an inch per hour. As snow begins to impact the area, major travel disruptions are anticipated, affecting not only local commutes but also air travel. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for harsh conditions and to stay updated through the Emergency Closing Center, which will provide timely information on closures and delays for schools, businesses, daycare centers, and other organizations. With expected snowfall amounts between 3 and 6 inches, the timing and intensity of the storm suggest that the worst impacts will likely be felt during the afternoon and evening. Once the storm passes, lingering travel difficulties may remain as the weather clears on the following day. Although the snow is expected to cease by Thursday morning, the aftermath—in terms of travel delays and icy conditions—could take time to resolve. While sunshine will return post-storm, temperatures are predicted to drop significantly, leaving residents facing bitterly cold conditions. Thursday high temperatures are likely to hover around the teens and 20s, while overnight lows going into Friday could plummet to single digits, with wind chills possibly reaching as low as -10 degrees. Adding to the complexity of the winter weather situation in the region, a second winter storm is forecasted to arrive late Friday night into Saturday, further exacerbating travel disruptions. With snowfall accumulation expected again, residents are advised to stay engaged with weather updates from reliable sources, particularly the CBS News Chicago First Alert Weather Team, as the situation evolves in real-time and more storms loom on the immediate horizon.