Chicago, IL – A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for much of northern Illinois and northwest Indiana until 6 AM Sunday, with heavy snow, gusty winds, and hazardous travel expected across the region, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) Chicago.
Forecasters call for 6–10 inches of total snow, with locally higher amounts possible northwest of a line from Ottawa to Aurora to Waukegan. Snow is already spreading across the region this morning and will intensify by this afternoon, when the highest snowfall rates are expected.
Southeast winds gusting up to 30 mph will contribute to areas of blowing and drifting snow, especially in open and rural areas. Roads across Cook, Lake, DuPage, Kane, McHenry, DeKalb, Will, Kankakee, La Salle, and adjacent Indiana counties—including Lake and Porter—are expected to become snow-covered and slippery through the afternoon and evening.
While the storm will primarily feature snow, NWS notes that areas east of I-55, including portions of Chicago, Joliet, Kankakee, Gary, and Merrillville, may see a brief mix or transition to drizzle this evening. This could lead to areas of slick, slushy pavement before temperatures fall again overnight.
Travel is expected to be very difficult, particularly during the late-afternoon and early-evening hours when snow rates climb and visibility drops. Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel or allow significantly extra time. If traveling, keep food, water, and a flashlight in your vehicle.
Road condition updates are available at GettingAroundIllinois.com for Illinois and 511in.org for Indiana.
Snow will taper off gradually overnight, but slippery roads may linger into Sunday morning.
