Periods of intense lake effect snow will impact parts of northeast Illinois and northwest Indiana from Friday evening through Saturday, creating dangerous travel conditions and rapidly changing visibility.
According to the National Weather Service Chicago, lake effect snow bands will continue to develop near Lake Michigan, producing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, with locally higher amounts possible in northwest Indiana. Areas near and north of U.S. 30, including portions of I-90, I-94, I-80, and I-65, face the highest risk for hazardous conditions.
Snow is expected to intensify Friday evening through midnight, initially affecting parts of northeast Illinois before shifting east into northwest Indiana late tonight into early Saturday, where peak intensity is forecast. Additional snow bands may redevelop closer to the lakeshore Saturday morning before gradually weakening Saturday afternoon.
Total accumulations may exceed 2 inches, with localized higher totals where persistent snow bands set up. Forecasters warn that snowfall amounts may vary dramatically over short distances, leading to sudden whiteout conditions, especially during heavier bursts. Gusty north winds of 25 to 30 mph along the lakeshore will further reduce visibility and cause blowing snow.
Temperatures will remain bitterly cold, with daytime highs Saturday only in the lower to mid-20s, allowing snow to accumulate quickly on untreated roadways. Travel may become dangerous with little warning, particularly during overnight and early morning hours.
Motorists are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, monitor road conditions closely, and allow extra time if travel is unavoidable. Drivers are reminded not to crowd snowplows and to be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Light snow chances continue into early next week, but lake effect impacts will remain the primary concern through Saturday. Residents should continue monitoring updates from the National Weather Service Chicago as band placement and intensity remain subject to change.
