More than 1,400 flights canceled; storm warning in effect
More than 1,200 flights have been canceled at O'Hare International Airport due to the windy, winter weather in the Chicago area this afternoon, and another 250 flights were canceled at Midway Airport, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation.
The problems stem more from wind than snow. As of 3 p.m., the National Weather Service reports only a half-inch of snow had fallen at O'Hare but winds were blowing at 30 miles per hour with gusts of 38 miles per hour, reducing visibility to one mile.
A winter storm warning remains in effect until midnight for all of northern Illinois.
The storm will produce snow, high winds and bitter cold. Snow will diminish in the afternoon, but strong winds will cause blowing and drifting. Wind chills of 20 to 25 degrees below zero are possible into Monday morning.
Snow accumulations of 3 to 5 inches are expected, though amounts may be higher near Lake Michigan.
Both airports report delays in upward of 30 minutes. The Chicago Department of Aviation strongly recommends travelers check with their airline's website for the status of flights before going to the airports, or before picking up arriving passengers.
For parking and other airport information, visit flychicago.com.