Weekend Winter Storm to Bring Significant Snowfall and Travel Impacts to Midwest
A weekend winter storm with the potential to dump a foot or more of snow is on its way to the Midwest, with the entire Chicago area, along with northern Indiana and southeastern Wisconsin, set to be impacted. Experts warn of “major” travel impacts and advise drivers to consider shifting their plans. The storm is expected to hit when millions of people are returning home from the holiday, making travel conditions even more hazardous.
“While we are prepared and ready to devote all of our resources to the latest winter weather event, this weekend’s storm will hit when millions of people are returning home from the holiday,” Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi said in a release. “Please make a plan to keep you and your loved ones safe, including adjusting travel so you are not on the roads when conditions are at their worst.”
When Will the Snow Start?
According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm warning will take effect starting at 3 a.m. The snow is expected to move into the Chicago area late Friday night and after midnight, starting in the far western counties. By 6 a.m. Saturday, widespread snow will “already be going,” NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Kircchaine said, and covering the entire Chicago area.
After that, it’s expected to snow “all day long,” Kirchhaine said, picking up intensity in the afternoon and evening. The National Weather Service warned that the highest rates of snowfall will be around one inch per hour, with the greatest travel impacts expected Saturday afternoon.
In a post on X, the NWS in Northern Indiana warned travelers to consider postponing or avoiding holiday travel over the weekend due to the storm. The Illinois Department of Transportation also warned drivers about the storm, saying travelers should plan accordingly for conditions to deteriorate starting Friday night, with “heavy snow, reduced visibility and slick, slippery conditions with much longer travel times.”
“The forecasted winter weather could lead to hazardous driving conditions,” ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen said in the release. “Think about whether driving is really necessary. Depending on the amount of snow and road conditions, if your vehicle becomes disabled, troopers can help you get to a safe place, but your vehicle will have to wait. Is it worth it?”
Travel Impacts and Safety Precautions
The NWS warned that travelers should consider delaying travel unless it’s “absolutely necessary,” with driving expected to be very difficult to impossible. Roads and bridges were likely to be slick and dangerous, and strong winds along with the weight of snow on tree limbs could cause sporadic power outages.
“Drive with extreme caution,” the NWS said. “Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you,” including tire chains, blankets, flashlights, shovels, and more. “Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded,” the NWS said.
How Much Snow is Expected in Chicago?
Most of the Chicago area was expected to get between eight and 12 inches of snow, with locally higher totals in the north and west suburbs. In far northwestern Illinois, up to 15 inches of “heavy, wet snow” was expected in Quad Cities and Rockford, IDOT said.
Further south and southeast, where a wintry mix was possible, totals were likely to stay between six and eight inches, Kircchaine said.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the weekend winter storm is expected to bring significant snowfall and travel impacts to the Midwest, with the entire Chicago area, northern Indiana, and southeastern Wisconsin affected. Travelers are advised to consider shifting their plans and to drive with extreme caution. The National Weather Service warns of hazardous driving conditions, and travelers should be prepared for heavy snow, reduced visibility, and slick, slippery conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the weekend winter storm:
Q: When will the snow start?
A: The snow is expected to move into the Chicago area late Friday night and after midnight, starting in the far western counties.
Q: How much snow is expected in Chicago?
A: Most of the Chicago area is expected to get between eight and 12 inches of snow, with locally higher totals in the north and west suburbs.
Q: What are the travel impacts expected to be?
A: The National Weather Service warns of hazardous driving conditions, with heavy snow, reduced visibility, and slick, slippery conditions expected. Travel may be significantly impacted along the I-69, I-80/I-90, I-94, and US 30 corridors.
Q: What precautions should I take when traveling?
A: Travelers should drive with extreme caution, consider taking a winter storm kit along with them, and be prepared for emergency situations. It’s also recommended to check the weather forecast and road conditions before embarking on a trip.
