Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee Expected to Face Hazardous Cold December 14–15 as NOAA Highlights Multi-State Winter Threat in New 3–7 Day Outlook

ILLINOIS — NOAA Flags Widespread Hazardous Cold From Midwest to Southeast in Mid-December, A new Day 3–7 U.S. Hazards Outlook from the Weather Prediction Center highlights a broad zone of hazardous cold stretching from the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes through the Ohio Valley and into the Southeast between December 14 and 15, 2025.

States such as Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Tennessee sit squarely inside the blue-shaded area, indicating a heightened risk for dangerously low temperatures and wind chills that could impact travel, outdoor events, and vulnerable populations.

For touring musicians, crews, and fans planning shows across this corridor, the outlook signals a cold snap that will require extra preparation.

Hazardous Cold Targets Central and Eastern U.S. December 14–15

According to the map, the coldest and most hazardous conditions are expected during the December 14–15 window, with the threat zone covering:

• The Upper Midwest, including parts of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois
• The Ohio Valley and Great Lakes, including Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and surrounding states
• Portions of the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, including Kentucky, Tennessee, the Carolinas, and nearby areas

Within this region, temperatures and wind chills may drop low enough to pose risks of frostbite or hypothermia for anyone spending extended time outdoors without proper protection. The outlook emphasizes that even short walks between venues, parking lots, and hotels can feel sharply colder than normal for mid-December.

Pacific Northwest Faces Heavy Snow and Heavy Rain

While the central and eastern states deal with hazardous cold, the Pacific Northwest stands out for heavy precipitation in the same time frame.

The hazards map shows:

• Heavy snow indicated across parts of Washington and Oregon from December 15–18
• Heavy rain along or near the Pacific coast from December 15–18, which could lead to localized flooding and slick travel over mountain passes

This combination of rain at lower elevations and snow in the higher terrain could disrupt roadways and travel routes frequently used by touring acts moving between coastal cities and inland venues.

High Winds Highlighted Over the Central Rockies and Alaska

Another key feature of the hazards outlook is a swath of high winds forecast across portions of the central Rockies:

• The map marks a vertical band from the central High Plains northward into the Rockies where strong winds are possible December 16–17.
• In Alaska, separate high wind areas are outlined between December 14–18, overlapping with zones of hazardous cold.

These winds could cause difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles, including tour buses and equipment trucks, especially on exposed highways and mountain passes.

Alaska Also Included in Multiple Hazard Areas

In addition to high winds, Alaska appears under several hazardous cold zones between December 15–18, indicating a prolonged stretch of bitter conditions. For any touring activity or logistics connected to the state, the outlook underscores the need for serious cold-weather planning.

What This Mid-December Outlook Means for Performers and Fans

For people connected to music events in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, and surrounding states, the new hazards map sends a clear message:

• Bundle up: Dangerous wind chills are possible, especially during late night load-outs and early morning travel.
• Plan for delays: Extreme cold can stress vehicles and infrastructure, leading to slower commutes or equipment issues.
• Watch regional updates: Local forecasts will refine exact temperatures and timing as December 14–15 approaches.

Meanwhile, acts traveling through the Pacific Northwest, Rockies, or Alaska should stay alert for heavy snow, heavy rain, or high winds that could complicate road and air travel.

Stay Weather-Aware With ChicagoMusicGuide.com

ChicagoMusicGuide.com will continue to monitor this multi-hazard pattern as mid-December approaches, tracking how hazardous cold, heavy snow, heavy rain, and high winds might affect concerts, tours, and festivals across the country.

Before you hit the road, step on stage, or line up for a show, check back here for updates to keep your plans — and your gear — safe from the weather.