CHICAGO, Ill. — As millions prepare to hit the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, forecasters are warning of dangerous winter weather across several Midwestern states. From heavy snowfall in Minnesota and Michigan to strong wind advisories in Illinois and Wisconsin, conditions are expected to make travel hazardous through midweek.
Major Winter Storm to Impact Midwest Travel
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple winter storm warnings and weather advisories across the upper Midwest through Wednesday and Thursday, with snow, wind, and reduced visibility expected to disrupt travel routes during one of the busiest weeks of the year.
Most of Minnesota remains under a winter storm warning until Wednesday morning. Rainfall across the Twin Cities is forecast to transition into heavy snow, leading to slick roadways and blowing snow conditions. Some parts of the state could see up to six inches of accumulation, with visibility dropping below a quarter-mile in some areas.
Authorities are urging drivers to avoid unnecessary travel as snow and wind combine to create near-whiteout conditions.
“Holiday travelers should prepare for sudden drops in visibility and difficult driving conditions,” the NWS stated. “Strong gusts will compound the impact of heavy snow.”
Wisconsin and Michigan Brace for Dangerous Winds and Snow
In central and southern Wisconsin, a winter weather advisory will remain active throughout Wednesday, with 1–3 inches of snow expected. However, the greater danger will come from northwest wind gusts up to 50 mph, which could result in blowing and drifting snow across major highways.
High-profile vehicles such as trucks and buses are particularly vulnerable to crosswinds on north-south roadways, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
Across the Great Lakes region, western and central Michigan are preparing for lake-effect snow bands that could dump between two and seven inches of accumulation through Thursday evening. The NWS has issued a winter storm warning for much of the area, warning that gusts may reach 55 mph, making some travel routes “difficult if not impossible.”
Chicago Under Wind Advisory as Flurries Return
Closer to home, the Chicago metro area will see blustery winds and light snow Wednesday as temperatures drop. A wind advisory is in effect from 3 a.m. to 9 p.m., with gusts expected to top 50–60 mph in some western suburbs.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor holiday decorations and prepare for isolated power outages due to falling branches or damaged power lines.
Snow flurries and wind-driven snow showers are also possible north of Interstate 80, especially during the morning and early afternoon commute.
Thanksgiving Travel Outlook
As the storm moves east, conditions are expected to remain cold and unsettled through the holiday weekend. Meteorologists say another round of light snow could hit the Chicago area on Saturday, followed by a sharp drop in temperatures. Highs could fall into the 20s by early next week, marking one of the coldest starts to December in recent years.
Authorities are reminding travelers to check road conditions before departure, keep an emergency kit in their vehicles, and monitor local weather updates as conditions evolve.
For ongoing coverage of severe weather alerts, highway closures, and travel safety updates, stay tuned to HonkNews.com.