Chicago, Illinois – A Winter Weather Advisory will impact the Chicago area Friday morning into early afternoon, followed by a Winter Storm Watch as the threat for intense lake-effect snow increases later in the day and Friday night.
A burst of snow is expected to develop mid to late Friday morning, with 2 to 3 inches accumulating in just a few hours across Cook, DuPage, and Lake counties. Snowfall rates may briefly reach an inch per hour, quickly making roads slick during the late morning and early afternoon commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, the advisory remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday. Conditions may briefly improve Friday afternoon before a much more dangerous setup develops near Lake Michigan. An intense band of lake-effect snow is expected to form over southern Lake Michigan and may pivot into central and southern Cook County Friday evening.
According to the NWS, the lake-effect band could linger for three to five hours, producing snowfall rates of 2 inches per hour or more. Localized accumulations exceeding 6 inches are possible, especially near the lake from the city south through Calumet City and nearby communities. Visibilities may drop below a quarter mile at times, creating near-whiteout conditions.
Major routes including Lake Shore Drive, I-90, I-94, I-80, and I-57 could become hazardous quickly during heavier snow bursts. According to IDOT, drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, as lake-effect snow bands can bring heavy snow to one area while nearby locations see little accumulation.
Residents are urged to monitor updates closely and avoid unnecessary travel Friday evening if lake-effect snow develops over the city. Keep phones charged and allow extra time for travel.
