Braidwood, IL – Drivers across Northern Illinois and Northwest Indiana faced rapidly changing and dangerous conditions this morning as a fast-moving snow squall swept through the region, bringing intense snowfall, gusty winds, and sharply reduced visibility.
According to the Braidwood Emergency Services and Disaster Agency, radar confirmed a narrow but powerful band of heavy snow at approximately 7:42 a.m. CST. The snow squall stretched from south of Newark through Lemont and into Chicago’s western suburbs, moving south at about 35 miles per hour. Wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph accompanied the system, causing blowing snow and near-whiteout conditions in some areas.
Officials warned that travel could become difficult or potentially dangerous within minutes, particularly during the morning commute. The squall impacted several major roadways, including I-55 between mile markers 225 and 268, I-57 between 322 and 358, I-80 between 104 and 155, I-90 near mile marker 107, I-94 and I-294 between mile markers 63 and 74, and I-355 between mile markers 1 and 12. Portions of I-80, I-90, I-94, and I-65 in Northwest Indiana were also affected.
Communities in the storm’s path included Joliet, Tinley Park, Orland Park, Oak Forest, Chicago Heights, Merrillville, Valparaiso, and Hobart, with the squall reaching areas such as Braidwood, Wilmington, Mazon, and Gardner shortly after 8 a.m. CST.
Emergency officials urge drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel while conditions remain hazardous. Those outdoors are advised to seek shelter indoors until the snow squall passes.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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