With Christmas less than three weeks away, many Americans are wondering if holiday travel will be impacted in a similar way to Thanksgiving.
Will there be snow? Icy roads? Maybe even some sunshine?
Though Midwestern weather is fickle, some experts have already released extended forecasts for the holiday season. Here’s what Illinois travelers should know.
What’s the 2025 Christmas forecast for Illinois?
Accuweather predicts partly sunny weather throughout the state on Christmas Day, with temperatures in the mid 30s in Chicago and central Illinois; and the mid 40s in southern Illinois.
The National Weather Service hasn’t yet released a Christmas forecast, as of Dec. 5.
Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts chilly, snowy Christmas in Illinois
The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its 2025 Christmas forecast on Dec. 2.
The forecast says western Illinois will likely see mild, sunny weather, making for smooth holiday travel. Southern Illinois is expected to also see some sunshine, though temperatures will be chillier.
Northeast Illinois, around the lower lakes area, will likely see the roughest travel conditions, with colder temperatures and periods of snow impacting road conditions. The almanac recommends allowing for extra travel time.
NOAA forecasts White Christmas nationwide
Using climate data from 1991-2020, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration created a map that shows the chances of there being at least one inch of snow across the U.S. on Christmas Day.
According to the map, northern Illinois has a roughly 40-60% chance of snow, while the southern half of the state has a 0-25% chance.
CONTRIBUTING: Marina Johnson, Louisville Courier Journal
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Will it snow on Christmas in Illinois? An extended holiday forecast
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
