As the nation gears up for the holiday season, Chicago is bracing for a significant weather event. On November 29, 2025, the Windy City is under a Winter Storm Watch, with several inches of snow expected to blanket the area by the end of the weekend. This weather system is part of a broader pattern affecting the Midwest, with St. Louis also in the path of the incoming storm. Residents and travelers alike are advised to stay informed and prepared as the Chicago weather forecast calls for hazardous conditions.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Chicago area, effective from November 29, 2025, at 3:00 AM CST until November 30, 2025, at 6:00 AM CST. This advisory comes as a major snowstorm is set to bring 6 to 12 inches of snow across Chicagoland, followed by dangerously cold temperatures next week. The storm is expected to impact travel and daily activities, with heavy snowfall and strong winds complicating road conditions. Commuters and travelers should plan accordingly, allowing for extra time and ensuring their vehicles are equipped for winter driving. The NWS warns of a wind advisory throughout Chicagoland for Wednesday, just as many may be hitting the roads or heading to airports for the Thanksgiving holiday.
As of November 29, 2025, the current conditions at Chicago-O'Hare International Airport (KORD) report a temperature of 32 degrees Fahrenheit with a south-southeast wind of 10 to 15 mph, gusting up to 25 mph. The Chicago weather forecast for the next 72 hours includes a 100% chance of precipitation, with new snow accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible. The weather is expected to be overcast with periods of heavy snow, making visibility challenging for drivers. The NWS advises residents to stay indoors if possible and to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
The Chicago weather forecast for the coming week includes a mix of snow showers and bitterly cold temperatures. Highs are expected to remain in the low to mid-20s, with overnight lows dipping into the teens. Wind chill values could make it feel even colder, with real-feel temperatures dropping below zero. Residents are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The NWS recommends checking on elderly neighbors and ensuring that pets have adequate shelter and warmth. The prolonged cold snap is expected to last through the end of next week, with no significant warming trend in sight.
Looking ahead, the extended Chicago weather forecast calls for continued winter weather, with additional snow showers and periods of mixed precipitation possible. The NWS advises residents to stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and heeding the advice of emergency management officials. Residents are encouraged to stock up on essential supplies, including food, water, medications, and emergency kits. The upcoming holiday season brings with it increased travel and social gatherings, and residents are urged to prioritize safety and preparedness in the face of potentially hazardous weather conditions.
While the incoming storm may disrupt holiday plans and daily routines, it also offers an opportunity for residents to come together and support one another. Neighborhoods can band together to clear snow, check on vulnerable individuals, and share resources. The spirit of community and resilience that defines Chicago will be on full display as residents work together to weather the storm. As we embrace the challenges and joys of the season, let us remember to prioritize safety, preparedness, and compassion for our fellow Chicagoans. With careful planning and a watchful eye on the Chicago weather forecast, we can navigate the upcoming storm and emerge stronger, more united, and ready to embrace the holiday spirit.
