A powerful winter storm sweeping across the Midwest brought Chicago to a near halt on Saturday, disrupting air travel, snarling road traffic, and prompting urgent weather alerts as heavy snow and intense winds battered the region.
The National Weather Service placed much of northern Illinois under a Winter Storm Warning through Sunday, cautioning residents to expect periods of whiteout conditions as the system pushes through. Meteorologists described the storm as one of the most disruptive early-season events in recent years, driven by a strengthening low-pressure system spreading severe winter weather across several states.
Forecasters reported that snow began to intensify overnight, with accumulation continuing steadily throughout the day. The combination of fast-falling snow and wind gusts strong enough to lift powdery flakes into the air created widespread blowing and drifting, especially in open areas. Weather specialists noted that some communities could see snow falling at rates of up to two inches per hour during the storm’s peak, significantly reducing visibility for commuters.
The severe conditions had an immediate impact on air travel. By early afternoon, hundreds of flights had been canceled at both O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation. Passengers were advised to check for real-time updates before making their way to either airport, as delays continued to grow and many airlines preemptively grounded flights to avoid safety risks.
Road travel across the region also became increasingly hazardous. Snow-covered streets and strong crosswinds prompted officials to urge residents to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary. Highway crews were deployed throughout the morning, but authorities warned that plows may struggle to keep up with the intensity of the snowfall during the storm’s peak hours.
The impacts of the weather system extended well beyond the Chicago metropolitan area. States across the Midwest faced similar challenges, with some regions bracing for icy conditions, power outages, and road closures. Forecasters predicted that the storm would continue its trek eastward, bringing additional disruptions as it spread over the weekend.
Officials encouraged residents to monitor local advisories, prepare for potential power interruptions, and limit travel until conditions improve. While the storm is expected to weaken gradually late Sunday, its effects are likely to linger, leaving crews with significant cleanup work in the days ahead.
