Chicago Weather Advisory: A winter storm warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. Sunday, affecting road and air travel as heavy snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Chicago, most of the accumulating snow will fall between about 12:00 PM and 8:00 PM (CST).
Travel across the region may be affected as accumulating snow will continue into tonight creating hazardous travel conditions. The heaviest snowfall will occur this afternoon into early evening.
“There will be a few chances for light snow next week. The first opportunity will be late Monday afternoon into Monday night when at least a few inches of snow accumulation is possible, which could affect both the Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning commutes,” the NWS said.
Locally higher amounts are possible northwest of Ottawa to the Aurora to Waukegan line.
Read also | Social Security payments: When can recipients expect a paycheck in December?
What to expect
— A long accumulating show.
— Top gusts around 1″ per hour and greatest travel impacts are expected this afternoon through early evening (12-8 p.m. CST).
Expected impact
— Snowy roads, very low visibility and dangerous travel.
what to do
— Drive slowly and don’t plow.
— Consider changing or postponing travel plans.
— If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of emergency.
.
Stay vigilant, urges Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds
In a post on X, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said the state is expecting severe winter weather to last through Saturday.
“As we continue to celebrate with our families and friends this holiday weekend, keep a close eye on weather conditions and follow all travel and safety advisories. Be vigilant and watch the weather!”
According to Bloomberg, several flights have been canceled in and around Chicago, with O’Hare International Airport the hardest hit.
As of 6 a.m. in New York, 656 flights in and around the U.S. had been canceled, with 518 starting or ending in Chicago, according to the airline’s tracking service, a report seen by FlightAware said.
Forecast for next parts
The NWS said a major winter storm over the central/northern Plains will spread east into the Midwest and Great Lakes this weekend with widespread heavy snow and hazardous travel conditions.
Snowfall rates in excess of 1″/hr are expected, especially during the day on Saturday, leading to storm totals between 6-12″.
“The combination of heavy snow combined with gusty winds will create hazardous travel conditions due to reduced visibility and snow-covered roadways. Snow should decrease from west to east overnight Saturday and into Sunday morning.”
While in the western US, temperatures are expected to remain relatively warmer.
