Chicago, IL – The season’s first significant lake effect snow event is taking shape for the southern Lake Michigan region, with the National Weather Service (NWS) in Chicago warning of intense snow bands capable of creating hazardous travel Sunday night into Monday.
Forecasters say rain will spread from west to east today before transitioning to a rain/snow mix this evening, then to all snow overnight. While most areas will see light accumulations initially, the focus turns to Sunday night, when lake effect snow may rapidly intensify.
“The deep magnitude of the upcoming cold air mass and the continued warmth of Lake Michigan waters will lead to unusually high instability levels,” the NWS said. This could produce snow rates exceeding 2 inches per hour, with wind gusts over 35 mph creating whiteout conditions.
Winter Storm Watches have been issued for Cook County (IL), Lake, Porter, La Porte, Starke, Marshall, and St. Joseph Counties (IN), and Berrien County (MI). Impacts will vary widely over short distances — some areas may see minimal snow, while others experience dangerous road conditions.
Drivers along I-90, I-94, and U.S. 12 should prepare for sudden changes in visibility and snow-covered roads late Sunday through Monday morning.
