CHICAGO, Ill. – The Midwest is staring down its first major winter wallop of the season. A potent storm system will unleash heavy lake-effect snow from Sunday afternoon through Monday evening, blanketing parts of Illinois and Indiana with 6 to 12 inches of accumulation — and locally higher totals near Lake Michigan.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for much of northern Indiana and northeast Illinois, including Chicago, Gary, and South Bend. Snowfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour during the most intense bands, driven by north winds gusting over 35 mph. The result: blizzard-like whiteouts, slick highways, and near-zero visibility, especially along I-80, I-90, and I-94.
Forecasters warn that travel could become extremely dangerous Sunday night through Monday morning. The combination of wet, heavy snow and strong gusts may down tree limbs and cause localized power outages. Untreated roads will quickly ice over, and visibility could vanish within minutes inside snow bands.
By Monday afternoon, winds ease as snowfall tapers to flurries. Temperatures stay locked in the 30s with wind chills in the 20s, ensuring that road crews face a long cleanup heading into Veterans Day.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, charge devices, and prepare vehicles with blankets, flashlights, and emergency kits. Those commuting early Monday should plan for extra time or consider delaying departures.
After all, this system is the first true test of Midwest winter preparedness — a harsh reminder that November means snow season is back. Once skies clear Tuesday, a short-lived thaw follows before another cold front slides in late week.
For now, Illinois and Indiana brace for a blustery, foot-deep introduction to winter.
