Another Round of Snow Sweeps Through Chicago Area

Winter weather advisory in effect as heavy snow and slick roads expected

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47pm

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A winter weather advisory has been issued for the Chicago area as a burst of heavy, accumulating snow is expected to sweep through the region on Friday, bringing 2 to 3 inches of snow and potentially up to 6 inches near Lake Michigan. The snow is expected to make travel conditions hazardous, with reduced visibility and slick roads.

Why it matters

Chicago has already seen significantly more snowfall this winter compared to the same time last year, with over 28 inches recorded at O'Hare International Airport. This latest round of snow will add to the already challenging winter weather conditions the city has faced, potentially impacting commutes and daily activities.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for central and southern Cook County from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday. Snow could fall at a rate of up to an inch per hour, making for slick travel conditions. An intense band of heavy lake-effect snow is also expected to develop over southern Lake Michigan in the afternoon and evening, which could affect portions of the area. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications is warning travelers to expect dangerous conditions and reduced visibility.

  • The winter weather advisory is in effect from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, January 29, 2026.
  • A winter storm watch has been issued from 3 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Saturday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related advisories and warnings.

Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications

The city agency that coordinates emergency response and provides public safety information to Chicago residents.

Gino Izzi

A senior meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Chicago.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This latest round of heavy snow in Chicago highlights the ongoing challenges the city faces in dealing with extreme winter weather conditions, which have been more severe this season compared to recent years. The potential for hazardous travel conditions underscores the importance of public agencies like the National Weather Service and the Chicago Office of Emergency Management & Communications in providing timely information and guidance to residents.