Winter Weather Alert: Chicago Area to Experience First Taste of Winter
The Chicago area will get its first taste of winter this weekend, with “intense bands” of lake-effect snow, blustery winds and low visibility expected starting Sunday. A winter storm watch was set to take effect beginning at midnight Monday for part of Cook County, as well as Lake and Porter counties in northwest Indiana.
Expected Weather Conditions
Localized snowfall rates in excess of two inches per hour, combined with wind gusts exceeding 35 miles per hour, could make for dangerous driving conditions, the NWS stated. When all is said and done, nearly six inches of snow are possible. Though most of the snow won’t arrive until late Sunday or Monday, wintry conditions will begin earlier on.
Saturday’s Forecast
Saturday will start with drizzle — accompanied by morning temperatures and wind chill values in the 40s, NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Pete Sack said. Rain will begin developing in the late afternoon hours, so if you have any outdoor plans, make sure to take your umbrella along. Overall, temperatures will climb into the upper 40s to the low 50s, and those will be the warmest conditions we’ll see for a bit.
Transition to Snow
When the overnight hours roll around, conditions will start to transition from rain to snow. Cooler air will slide its way in, causing temperatures to plunge to around the freezing mark. In addition, wind chill values will drop to the 20s. Intense bands of lake effect snow are possible Sunday night into Monday with high snow rates and low visibility. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Cook, Lake (IN), and Porter Counties.
Sunday’s Forecast
When Sunday arrives, breezy conditions are likely, along with a few snow showers possible in the morning – and lake-effect snow during the afternoon in northwest Indiana. Parts of DeKalb and Kane counties could see over an inch of snow by noon, but that will mainly be on grassy areas, Sack said. The day will be very chilly overall, with temperatures only climbing into the mid-to-upper 30s.
Lake-Effect Snow
Then, another batch of snow will be heading our way. Winds shifting off the lake will lead to wind chill values in the teens overnight Sunday into Monday. As gusty winds take hold, lake-effect snow bands will develop, prompting accumulation along Lake Michigan. It’s essential to note that snow is mainly expected near the lakefront, though some inland areas could experience around two inches of accumulation.
Snowfall Projections
For instance, DeKalb could see 2.1 inches of snow, while in Aurora, the projected snowfall total is 1.8 inches. Waukegan, meanwhile, could experience 2.4 inches of snow, while 3.4 inches are projected in Valparaiso, Indiana. The highest projected totals are at Midway Airport and in Gary, Indiana, where 4 inches and 5.7 inches of snowfall are possible, respectively.
Stay Informed
Stay up to date on the latest forecast, as the situation can change quickly. Follow the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news for the most recent updates on the winter storm watch and snowfall projections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Chicago area is expected to experience its first taste of winter this weekend, with intense bands of lake-effect snow, blustery winds, and low visibility. It’s crucial to stay informed and plan accordingly to ensure safety on the roads and in daily activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What areas are under the winter storm watch?
A: The winter storm watch is in effect for part of Cook County, as well as Lake and Porter counties in northwest Indiana.
Q: How much snow is expected?
A: Nearly six inches of snow are possible, with the highest projected totals at Midway Airport and in Gary, Indiana, where 4 inches and 5.7 inches of snowfall are possible, respectively.
Q: What are the expected wind chill values?
A: Wind chill values will drop to the 20s on Saturday night and into the teens overnight Sunday into Monday.
Q: Are there any travel advisories?
A: Yes, localized snowfall rates in excess of two inches per hour, combined with wind gusts exceeding 35 miles per hour, could make for dangerous driving conditions. It’s essential to check the latest travel advisories before heading out.
Q: How can I stay informed about the winter storm?
A: Stay up to date on the latest forecast by following the National Weather Service (NWS) and local news for the most recent updates on the winter storm watch and snowfall projections.
