Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Chicago Area
A winter weather advisory has been issued for nearly the entire Chicago area, with a mix of freezing rain, ice, and snow expected to hit parts of the region starting Wednesday afternoon.
Timing and Coverage
The advisory begins at 12 p.m. CT Wednesday and continues through 6 a.m. Thursday for LaSalle, Kendall, Grundy, Kankakee, Southern Cook, and Will counties in Illinois, as well as Lake, Porter, Newton, and Jasper counties in northwest Indiana. For McHenry, Lake, DeKalb, Kane, DuPage, Northern Cook, and Central Cook counties in Illinois, the advisory starts at 3 p.m. Wednesday and continues through 6 a.m. Thursday.
Weather Conditions
The advisory warns of "mixed precipitation, including freezing rain expected." Snow and sleet accumulations of up to one inch, along with ice accumulations of up to two tenths of an inch, are possible. "Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous," the advisory warns. "Plan on slippery road conditions, including during the Wednesday evening commute."
Significance of the System
The system, described as "significant" by NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Alicia Roman, will also bring ice accumulation to areas of Michigan, northern Indiana, and Ohio. However, officials have yet to call the incoming system an "ice storm."
Wintry Mix
The wintry mix could start in the early afternoon Wednesday, with some flurries forming earlier in the day. The main event, however, isn’t expected to come until the evening hours Wednesday, towards the end of the afternoon and evening commute. According to NBC 5 Meteorologist Iisha Scott, the mix will be a combination of freezing rain, sleet, and snow.
Freezing Rain and Ice Accumulations
"Freezing rain will be the biggest issue," Scott said, of the conditions expected. The system could also bring ice accumulations, with up to a tenth-of-an-inch of ice in some parts, and a half-inch of snow or sleet possible in others.
Travel Impacts
"At least some travel impacts likely areawide," the National Weather Service said, with slick, slippery road conditions lingering into early Thursday.
Conclusion
Residents are advised to plan ahead and take necessary precautions to ensure safe travel and daily activities. Stay tuned to local news and weather reports for updates on the system’s progression and any changes to the advisory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does the winter weather advisory begin?
A: The advisory begins at 12 p.m. CT Wednesday for some areas and 3 p.m. CT Wednesday for others.
Q: What types of precipitation are expected?
A: A mix of freezing rain, ice, and snow is expected.
Q: How much snow and ice accumulation is possible?
A: Snow and sleet accumulations of up to one inch, along with ice accumulations of up to two tenths of an inch, are possible.
Q: Will the system cause significant travel impacts?
A: Yes, the National Weather Service warns of "at least some travel impacts likely areawide," with slick, slippery road conditions lingering into early Thursday.
