Midwest Region•Capital: Springfield
Illinois Snow Day Predictor
IL
From Chicago lake-effect snow squalls to central Illinois prairie blizzards with drifting snow, Illinois school districts deal with high winds and extreme cold.
Typical Closure Threshold
5 to 9 inches (or wind chill below -20°F)
Climate Classification
Humid Continental
Average Annual Snow Days
10–20 days
Illinois Cities & School Districts
Select your city below for localized school closure probability forecasts and district contacts.
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Department of Transportation Plowing Operations
IDOT operates over 1,700 plows across state highways. Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation maintains 280+ salt trucks.
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School Closure Decision Framework
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) balances student commute safety with meal security, while suburban and downstate districts frequently shift to e-learning days.
Illinois Snow Day FAQs
Q:Does Chicago Public Schools close more for snow or extreme cold?
CPS closes just as often for dangerous sub-zero wind chills (-20°F or colder) because tens of thousands of students walk to school or wait at uncovered CTA bus stops.