Icy Winter Storm Results in Power Outage for 89,000 People in Chicago

As an icy winter storm moves through the area, over 89,000 people in the Chicago area are without power.

Due to the weight of the ice, power lines, and trees have all fallen. Travel will also present blocked streets and slick and hazardous roadways

Winter Weather and Dense Fog Advisory

A winter weather advisory is in effect for some of southern Wisconsin until Thursday morning.

For portions of central, east central, north central, and northeast central Illinois and northwest Indiana, a dense fog advisory is in effect.

Due to the weather, several schools have decided to close on Thursday.

The road conditions in the northern suburbs were significantly improved for travel on Thursday morning compared to Wednesday, thanks to crews working overnight to spread salt.

North and northwest portions of the city are the main areas without electricity.

Icy Roads, Power Outage, Freezing Conditions

Residents in several areas are facing hazardous conditions due to widespread ice accumulation. One resident reported that their driveway was completely iced, and the roads have become even icier.

Power outages are also affecting many customers, and crews are working tirelessly to restore electricity as quickly as possible. Despite these efforts, families in McHenry County are struggling with the additional challenge of downed power lines and trees blocking darkened streets.

In Lake County, ice has coated everything from tree limbs to power lines, making it difficult to navigate. Similarly, in Antioch, dangerous road conditions caused by rain and dropping temperatures are making driving treacherous.

A tree fell onto power lines on Route I-73 near Interstate 94, causing road closures. Iced-over tree branches are also causing problems across many northern suburbs, including Lake Villa, Lindenhurst, and Round Lake Heights.

Finally, in Crystal Lake, a large tree branch fell due to the weight of ice buildup from the steady rain all day.

Canceled Flights

At O'Hare, over 50 flights had been canceled as of 5:30 AM, and 10 flights had been canceled at Midway. At both airports, there were fewer than 15-minute flight delays.

According to Larry Mowry, a meteorologist from ABC7 Chicago, temperatures were in the 70s and there was a tornado watch in effect in downstate Illinois.

Wednesday night's temperatures rose into Thursday, reaching nearly 50 degrees Thursday morning before dropping again in the afternoon.

With a high of only 28 degrees on Friday, the day will be chilly and windy and at night, a few flurries are possible.

Hazardous Weather Outlook

According to the National Weather Service, as of 10:17 this morning, a Day ONE Hazardous Weather Outlook has been issued for parts of North Central and Northeast Illinois, and Northwest Indiana. Weather hazards are predicted for today and tonight, along with a minimal risk of non-thunderstorm winds.

This afternoon, strong westerly winds will remain gusting up to 40 mph, with a few stronger gusts possible. Further power outages and tree damage may occur in far northern Illinois as a result of wind and remaining ice on trees as well as power lines.

Gale Warning

A Gale Warning is in effect from Winthrop Harbor through Calumet Harbor until this evening at 9 o'clock. According to The Weather Channel, strong winds will produce dangerous waves that could capsize or damage ships and decrease visibility.