Midway Airport: Weathering The Storms, Always Prepared

Chicago Midway International Airport is located in Illinois, with a wind chill that can make the temperature feel as low as 60°F. The airport often experiences hazardous weather conditions, including snow, ice, and strong winds. For example, in January 2025, the airport forecast predicted snow and a wintry mix, with a chance of freezing rain and cloudy skies. In December 2024, storms disrupted holiday travel plans, delivering snow and slippery travel conditions to the Northeast. Windy conditions and morning showers are also common, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph.

Windy, with gusts of up to 40 mph

Windy conditions with gusts of up to 40 mph can be expected at Midway Airport, Chicago, on certain days. For instance, on Halloween, the airport experienced winds gusting past 40 mph, along with morning showers and cooler temperatures.

On another occasion, the airport was subject to a winter storm, with snow and ice causing potential disruptions to holiday travel plans. The wind gusts during this storm were expected to reach a maximum of 15 mph, which is significantly lower than the 40 mph gusts previously experienced.

In the new year, Midway Airport can anticipate a mix of weather conditions, including snow, freezing rain, and partly cloudy skies. The wind speeds during this period are forecasted to range from 5 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching up to 20 mph.

While the exact wind speeds and gusts can vary, it is not uncommon for Midway Airport to experience windy conditions, with gusts occasionally surpassing 40 mph. These weather conditions can have implications for air travel, and it is always advisable to check the latest weather updates and any resulting travel advisories or delays.

Partly cloudy skies

On January 10, 2025, the forecast predicts snow, with a high near 30 degrees Fahrenheit and a chance of precipitation at 90%. The following night, there is a 20% chance of snow, with a low temperature of around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The next day, the weather will be mostly sunny, with a high near 29 degrees Fahrenheit. The following night, the temperature will drop to a low around 22 degrees Fahrenheit, with a south wind of 5 to 10 mph and gusts of up to 15 mph.

By the next day, there is a 50% chance of snow showers and freezing rain, with a cloudy sky and a high temperature of about 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The wind will pick up, with gusts as high as 20 mph. On the night of January 11, 2025, there is a 30% chance of snow showers and freezing rain, with a low temperature of around 15 degrees Fahrenheit.

The following day, January 12, 2025, the skies will be partly sunny, with a high near 21 degrees Fahrenheit. The night will bring partly cloudy skies and colder temperatures, with a low of around 6 degrees Fahrenheit.

On January 13, 2025, the forecast predicts mostly sunny conditions and milder temperatures, with a high near 16 degrees Fahrenheit.

Snow and ice outlook

Snow and ice can be expected at Chicago Midway International Airport, with a 90% chance of precipitation on the 10th of January 2025. Snow accumulation of 1 to 2 inches is possible, with a slight chance of snow continuing through the night.

On the 11th of January, there is a 20% chance of snow, with a mix of clouds and sunshine. The following day, the 12th, will see a return to mostly sunny conditions, with a high temperature of 29 degrees.

By the 13th, there is a 50% chance of snow showers and freezing rain, with a high temperature of 32 degrees. The chance of snow and freezing rain continues through the night into the 14th, with a 30% chance of precipitation.

The 15th and 16th of January will see a return to partly sunny and mostly sunny conditions, respectively, with no mention of snow or ice in the forecast.

In terms of snowfall amount probability, there is a 1% chance of greater than 6 inches, a 24% chance of a coating to an inch, and a 1% chance of little to no accumulation.

Chance of precipitation

The chance of precipitation varies depending on the time of year. In the winter, there is a high chance of precipitation, with a 90% chance of snow in January, and slippery travel expected prior to Christmas. In the summer, there is a lower chance of precipitation, but storms are still possible, with one report mentioning "ghoulish gusts and sinister storms" for Halloween. Windy conditions are also common, with gusts of over 40 mph possible.

On the 10th of January 2025, there was a forecast of snow and a wintry mix, with a 90% chance of precipitation. The snow was expected to continue into the night, with a 20% chance of precipitation, and a slight chance of snow between 9 pm and 5 am. The following day, the 11th of January, was predicted to be mostly sunny, with a high near 29. The chance of precipitation is not mentioned for this day, so it is likely low.

The extended forecast for Chicago Midway Airport, IL, predicts a chance of snow showers and freezing rain, with a 50% chance of precipitation. This is expected to continue into the night, with a 30% chance of precipitation, and a slight chance of snow showers and freezing rain before midnight. The following day is expected to be partly sunny, with a high near 21, and no mention of precipitation.

Overall, the chance of precipitation at Midway Airport varies depending on the time of year and the specific weather conditions. It is important to check the weather forecast for the most up-to-date information on the chance of precipitation.

Cold temperatures, with a low of 14F

Cold temperatures of 14°F (–10°C) can be dangerous and require careful preparation to avoid health issues such as frostbite and hypothermia. Here are some essential steps to take when dealing with such low temperatures:

Plan Ahead

It is crucial to stay informed about the weather forecast and be prepared for cold temperatures. Check the forecast regularly to anticipate extremely cold weather.

Adjust Your Schedule

If possible, limit your time outdoors during the coldest part of the day, typically the early morning. Reschedule outdoor activities or errands to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.

Dress Appropriately

When venturing outdoors, ensure you are dressed appropriately for the extreme cold. Wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including a sturdy jacket, gloves, a hat, and boots. Cover as much skin as possible to protect against frostbite.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Ensure your vehicle is ready for cold weather conditions. Keep at least half a tank of gas to prevent the fuel line from freezing and to stay warm if stranded. It is also essential to have an emergency kit in your car, including jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles, flashlights with fresh batteries, a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, a basic toolkit, warm clothes, blankets, and a charged cell phone with a spare charger.

Protect Your Home and Possessions

Take measures to protect your home and possessions from the extreme cold. Insulate and protect water pipes from freezing. If you have pets or livestock, ensure they have adequate shelter, food, and unfrozen water. Know the temperature thresholds of your plants and crops to protect them.

Stay Informed

Continuously monitor the weather forecast and be aware of any weather alerts or warnings. Stay informed about the potential health risks associated with extreme cold, such as hypothermia and frostbite, and know the symptoms to watch out for.

Remember, taking proactive measures and staying informed can help you safely navigate through extremely cold temperatures like 14°F.

Frequently asked questions