Light Snow Winds Down in Chicago, Slick Spots Possible

Warmer weekend ahead after brief rain chance

Mar. 18, 2026 at 10:06am

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Light, powdery snow will taper off early this morning in the Chicago area, leaving behind mostly cloudy skies and somewhat milder temperatures. While accumulation will be minimal, there may be some slippery spots on untreated roads due to the below-freezing temperatures. A chance of light rain is expected tonight into Thursday before a warmer, dry weekend arrives.

Why it matters

Chicago residents are eager for the winter weather to subside, and this latest round of light snow represents one of the last chances for accumulation before spring arrives. The varying temperatures across the region can also impact road conditions and travel.

The details

The light snow will wind down early this morning, with temperatures ranging from the upper 30s in the northern counties to the low 50s in the Kankakee River Valley. The city of Chicago is expected to see highs in the mid 40s. While the snow accumulation will be minimal, the below-freezing temperatures could still lead to some slick spots on untreated roads. A chance of light rain is expected to move in tonight and continue into Thursday morning, before a warmer and drier weekend arrives with highs in the 50s and 60s, though it will be cooler near the lake.

  • The light snow will taper off early this morning.
  • A chance of light rain is expected to arrive tonight and continue into Thursday morning.
  • Warmer and drier weather is expected to move in for the weekend, with highs in the 50s and 60s.

The players

Mike Caplan

A Fox Chicago meteorologist who provided the information in this report.

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What they’re saying

“I think most of us would be happy if this were the last snow of the season, but that is highly unlikely as it frequently snows even into April as we all know.”

— Mike Caplan, Meteorologist (fox32chicago.com)

The takeaway

This latest round of light snow serves as a reminder that winter weather can linger in Chicago well into spring, but the warmer and drier weather on the horizon offers hope for residents eager to leave the winter behind.