Chicago, Illinois – Prolonged lake effect snow is expected to impact northwest Indiana and parts of the Chicago metro from Friday into Saturday, prompting a Winter Storm Warning for Lake and Porter counties due to the potential for heavy snowfall and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, confidence is increasing that a persistent lake effect snow band will develop along the southern Lake Michigan shoreline beginning Friday afternoon and continuing through much of Saturday. As a result, Lake County (IN) and Porter County (IN) have been upgraded from a watch to a Winter Storm Warning.
Forecasters say snowfall rates within the strongest bands could become intense at times, particularly Friday evening through early Saturday. While exact placement remains uncertain, localized totals of 6 to 10 inches or more are possible where the snow band stalls. Areas just outside the band may see significantly lower accumulations.
The most significant impacts are expected along major roadways including Interstate 80, Interstate 94, and portions of Interstate 65, where rapidly changing visibility and snow-covered lanes could make travel difficult or dangerous. Commuters traveling between northwest Indiana and the south suburbs of Chicago should plan for delays, especially during the Friday evening and Saturday morning periods.
The National Weather Service noted that lake effect snow bands are notoriously difficult to pin down, and even small shifts could change which communities receive the heaviest snow. Residents are urged to continue monitoring updated forecasts and alerts.
Air travel at Chicago Midway and O’Hare International Airports could also experience intermittent delays if the snow band drifts westward.
Drivers, students, and overnight workers in northwest Indiana should prepare for winter travel conditions, allow extra time, and carry emergency supplies if travel is unavoidable.
