Chicago, IL – A powerful winter storm is set to hit the Chicago area, with some parts expecting up to a foot of snow. A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for several counties in Illinois, including Grundy, LaSalle, Cook, Will, DuPage, and Kane, as well as McHenry and Winnebago counties. In addition, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Kankakee County in Illinois and Lake and Porter counties in Indiana. A Winter Weather Advisory is also in place for select areas.
The snowfall is predicted to begin light but intensify throughout the day, with rates of up to an inch per hour. The heaviest snowfall is expected during the afternoon and evening, potentially causing treacherous travel conditions. The morning commute may also be affected, with heavy snow, reduced visibility, and strong winds. Areas south of the city may even experience a mix of rain and sleet, accompanied by isolated thunder.
Snowfall totals vary across the region, with areas along the lakefront expected to receive around 3 to 6 inches of snow. Most inland areas could get between 6 to 8 inches, while the northwestern suburbs may see up to 8 to 12 inches. Southern areas, further away from the city, are projected to have 3 to 6 inches of snow. These estimates highlight the potential impact of the storm on transportation and daily activities in affected regions.
The storm has already begun to create hazardous road conditions, particularly on expressway ramps. A single vehicle overturned on the ramp of the Edens Expressway at Dempster Avenue, although all occupants declined medical assistance. Air travel has also been disrupted, with hundreds of flight cancellations reported at Chicago’s airports. As of the early morning, O’Hare Airport had seen 452 cancellations, while Midway Airport had 115 cancellations.
Residents are advised to exercise caution while navigating the roadways and to stay updated on the latest weather and traffic advisories. It is crucial to be prepared and make any necessary arrangements to minimize the potential impact of the storm.