Illinois-Indiana – Lake effect snow is expected to impact areas near the Illinois-Indiana state line through Saturday, with localized heavy accumulations creating hazardous travel conditions along major roadways.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, multiple bands of lake effect snow will move inland from Lake Michigan beginning after daybreak Friday and continue through Saturday afternoon. The most significant impacts are expected near and just east of the Illinois-Indiana border, particularly affecting travel along Interstates I-80, I-94, and I-65.
Forecasters indicate a high probability of 4 to 8 inches of snow in parts of northwestern Indiana, with locally higher totals possible where snow bands persist. Areas closer to the state line in northeastern Illinois may see 2 to 4 inches, while brief bursts of snow could drop totals quickly over short distances.
The event is expected to unfold in three distinct time windows. Friday daytime snow will primarily affect northeastern Illinois, including portions of the I-94 corridor. Tonight, the most intense lake effect snow is forecast to shift into northwestern Indiana, where snowfall rates may reach 2 inches per hour, significantly reducing visibility. On Saturday, snow bands are expected to drift back toward the Illinois-Indiana state line before gradually weakening during the afternoon.
Winds from the north to northwest at 15 to 25 mph, with higher gusts near the Lake Michigan shoreline, may contribute to blowing snow and rapidly changing road conditions.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that lake effect snow is highly localized, meaning conditions can vary dramatically over just a few miles. Drivers traveling along I-80, I-94, and I-65 are urged to monitor road conditions closely and be prepared for sudden whiteout conditions.
