Chicago Airports Lead Nation in Cancellations Amid Snowfall

URGENT UPDATE: Chicago’s two major airports are experiencing a surge in flight cancellations this morning, despite lighter-than-expected snowfall. As of 8 a.m. today, 144 flights have been canceled at O’Hare Airport and 72 flights at Midway Airport, according to data from FlightAware. An additional 135 arrivals at O’Hare and 52 at Midway have also been scrapped.

The city’s first significant winter storm has resulted in only 1.6 inches of snow at O’Hare and 2.5 inches at Midway as of 7 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. In contrast, nearby areas like Kankakee are reporting over 5 inches of snow. Initially forecasted to deliver 7 to 15 inches through Tuesday evening, meteorologist Zachary Yack indicated that the Chicago metro area may now expect a maximum of “half an inch at worst” as snow tapers off.

A winter storm warning for Cook County is set to expire at noon today. Temperatures are projected to remain around 35 degrees throughout the day, but wind chills could plunge into the 20s and possibly drop into the teens overnight into Tuesday.

In response to the chilly conditions, various warming and senior centers across the city will be open throughout the day. Yack has urged residents to exercise caution while driving, as road visibility can rapidly decrease under the snow band. “Even though some of the snow totals weren’t as big in some spots as originally forecast, there are still slick spots on the road because all the rain we got over the weekend did freeze a little bit,” Yack warned.

As travelers face significant delays and cancellations at Chicago airports, the impact of this weather event is being felt by thousands. Stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve.