Chicago, IL – A regional winter storm is expected to impact the Upper Mississippi River Valley on Saturday, bringing widespread snow, strong winds, and hazardous driving conditions across several states just as holiday travelers return to the roads.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, snow will develop late Friday night, increasing in intensity Saturday morning. The system will affect major travel corridors including I-39, I-55, I-57, I-65, I-74, I-80, I-88, I-90, and I-94, stretching from Iowa and Wisconsin through Illinois and into Indiana.
Snowfall rates could reach up to 1 inch per hour, especially across northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, before a possible transition to rain further south Saturday afternoon. Even if rain mixes in, forecasters caution that travel delays and slick roads are likely throughout the region.
The storm’s footprint extends across Cedar Rapids, Madison, Rockford, Milwaukee, and Chicago, with the highest probability of hazardous travel conditions concentrated along the Mississippi River Valley. Temperatures will range from the upper 20s to low 30s°F, with southeast winds gusting up to 25 mph reducing visibility.
Officials urge travelers to monitor forecasts, check road conditions before departure, and consider adjusting travel plans if possible. A more refined forecast is expected Thursday morning.
