Peoria, Illinois – Light snow is expected to move into the Peoria area Thursday evening, creating slick road conditions overnight and into the Friday morning commute, according to the National Weather Service Central Illinois.
Forecasters say snow is expected to begin around 6 p.m. northwest of the Illinois River and spread southeastward across central Illinois, reaching the Peoria area by mid-evening. Snow should taper to flurries by Friday morning.
Snow accumulations are forecast to be generally under 1 inch across Peoria and much of central Illinois. However, the National Weather Service notes the best chance of near-1-inch totals is along and north of the Interstate 74 corridor, including the Peoria metro area, where there is about a 40 percent chance of reaching that amount.
Despite the light snowfall, slippery road conditions are possible due to falling temperatures. Any untreated or wet surfaces may freeze overnight, potentially affecting both the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes. Reduced visibility is also possible during periods of snow.
Overnight temperatures in Peoria are expected to fall into the lower to mid-20s, with daytime highs Friday reaching the upper 30s to lower 40s. Another weak system may bring a chance of light snow Friday night, again with accumulations likely under 1 inch and only a 10 percent chance of exceeding that amount.
Looking ahead, an extended period of very cold weather is expected to settle in Saturday through early next week. High temperatures from Saturday through Monday are forecast to range from the mid-teens to mid-20s, with wind chills near or below zero at times during the overnight and early morning hours.
The National Weather Service advises drivers to slow down, allow extra travel time, and be alert for icy patches on roads, bridges, and sidewalks.
Commuters, students, and early-morning workers in the Peoria area should plan for slick travel conditions late tonight and Friday morning.
