Wind Advisory in Effect for Chicago Area

Gusts up to 45 mph expected until Friday afternoon

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A wind advisory has been issued for parts of north central and northeast Illinois, as well as northwest Indiana, set to expire at 4 p.m. on Friday. Officials are warning of winds between 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph, which could lead to unsecured objects, tree limbs, and power outages.

Why it matters

High winds can create hazardous driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles, and lead to property damage and power outages in the affected areas. The wind advisory is an important alert for residents and commuters to take precautions.

The details

The National Weather Service has issued the wind advisory, which covers the Chicago metropolitan area. Conditions at Midway Airport include light snow and windy weather at 30 degrees, while O'Hare International Airport is experiencing fog, mist, and similar windy conditions at 32 degrees.

  • The wind advisory is in effect until 4 p.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

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

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What’s next

Residents should secure any loose outdoor objects and be cautious when driving, especially in high-profile vehicles, until the wind advisory expires on Friday afternoon.

The takeaway

This wind advisory highlights the importance of staying informed about local weather conditions and taking appropriate safety measures to protect against potential property damage and disruptions caused by high winds.