Snow ends, record subzero temps expected

Few problems were reported during the morning rush Tuesday after 2 to 3 inches of snow fell across the Chicago area overnight. The next challenge: Possibly record-setting subzero cold before we get a break this weekend.

The biggest headache occurred around 7:45 a.m. when a switching problem prevented an inbound train on the Union Pacific West line from entering Ogilvie Transportation Center for 10 to 15 minutes. Metra also reported switching problems on the Metra Electric line that caused delays of up to 20 minutes.

CTA trains generally ran on time. Minor delays were reported on the Orange Line because of mechanical problems.

At the airports, 130 flights were canceled at O’Hare International Airport and 100 were delayed. At Midway, five cancellations were reported.

The snow was less than expected, with O’Hare recording 2 inches of snow overnight while Rockford Airport saw just under 3 inches, according to the National Weather Service.

Other totals: 3.3 inches in Peotone, 3.2 inches in Yorkville, 3 inches in North Aurora, 2.7 inches in Batavia, 2.5 inches in Downers Grove, 2.5 inches in Lemont, 2.3 inches at Midway, 2.3 inches in Buffalo Grove, 2.2 inches in Crest Hill, 2.2 inches in Lincoln Park, 2.2 inches in Joliet and 1.4 inches in Deerfield. Higher amounts were recorded in Marseilles, 6.5 inches, and Ottawa, 5.5 inches.

The weather service warned of drifting snow Tuesday afternoon as winds pick up to 35 mph.

Temperatures were below zero across the Chicago area overnight but were expected to climb as high as 15 degrees Tuesday.

Highs on Wednesday are expected to reach only up to 2 degrees, according to the weather service. Overnight lows could reach 13 below zero, which would break the record low for Jan. 8 of minus 11 set in 1942.

The weather service has issued a wind chill warning beginning Tuesday night through Thursday afternoon. Wind chills could reach 25 to 35 degrees below zero overnight Tuesday and Wednesday.

WGN-TV meteorologist Tom Skilling’s forecast:

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, gusty northwest winds and brutally cold. Lake-effect snow showers in the snowbelt areas of Indiana and Michigan. Highs near zero with dangerous -20 to -35 degree wind chills.

Thursday: Potentially record-breaking cold at the start. Increasing cloudiness, windy and frigid. Some flurries or light snow possible late, especially northern sections.

Friday: A third surge of frigid arctic air arrives amid gusty northwest winds producing wind chills of -10 to -20 degrees. Bitterly cold at night with widespread subzero lows.

Saturday: Continued very cold under a mix of sun and clouds. Southwest winds 12 to 18 mph produce wind chill readings of -10 to -25 degrees.

Sunday: More cloudy than not, the intensity of the cold finally begins to ease in the afternoon. Some flurries or light snow possible, but only minor accumulations expected at this time.

Monday: Extensive cloudiness, though some peeks of sun cannot be ruled out. Much calmer than recent days with a more moderate brand of wintry chill.