Chicago Weather: Winter Weather Advisory in Place Tonight
Chicago Weather Alert
Chicagoland is bracing for hazardous travel conditions as freezing rain and freezing drizzle move into the area this evening. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the city, beginning at 6 p.m. and lasting until 6 a.m. Thursday. Meanwhile, an advisory for the south suburbs began at 4 p.m.
While road salt will be effective with temperatures in the upper 20s to low 30s, any untreated surfaces are expected to become icy quickly. The freezing precipitation will be scattered at first, primarily affecting the southern suburbs in the late afternoon before expanding northward into the evening. The heaviest precipitation is expected tonight before tapering off overnight.
Timeline
* As of 4 p.m., precipitation had begun moving into the far southern suburbs (LaSalle, Grundy, Kankakee, Newton, Jasper).
* At 6 p.m., a Winter Weather Advisory will begin for the following counties: McHenry, Lake (IL), DeKalb, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Lake (IN), Porter, LaPorte, Will, and Kendall.
* By 7 p.m., conditions are expected to deteriorate as untreated roads and sidewalks turn icy.
* By 8 p.m., freezing rain and drizzle will extend northward to the Wisconsin border.
* The freezing rain will continue overnight but gradually taper off after midnight, clearing from west to east.
What to Expect
While most areas will receive less than a tenth of an inch of ice, even a thin layer could cause hazardous travel conditions. By Thursday morning, temperatures will rise into the lower 40s, allowing any lingering ice to melt by midday.
What’s Next
Drivers and pedestrians are urged to use caution tonight and early Thursday morning. Roads, sidewalks, and bridges may remain slick until temperatures rise. Authorities recommend allowing extra travel time and checking conditions before heading out.
Conclusion
It’s essential to stay informed about the weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and smooth commute. Remember to check the latest updates and follow the instructions of local authorities to stay safe.
FAQs
Q: What is the Winter Weather Advisory?
A: A Winter Weather Advisory is issued by the National Weather Service when hazardous winter weather conditions are expected to occur.
Q: What are the affected areas?
A: The affected areas include the city of Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including McHenry, Lake (IL), DeKalb, Kane, DuPage, Cook, Lake (IN), Porter, LaPorte, Will, and Kendall counties.
Q: What should I do to prepare for the winter weather?
A: You should stay informed about the weather conditions, check the latest updates, and follow the instructions of local authorities. You should also prepare your vehicle by making sure it is winter-ready, and keep a winter emergency kit in your car.
Q: Will the ice melt by midday on Thursday?
A: Yes, temperatures are expected to rise into the lower 40s on Thursday morning, allowing any lingering ice to melt by midday.
