Chicago, IL – A powerful winter storm is expected to blanket northern Illinois and northwest Indiana with heavy snow this weekend, causing hazardous travel conditions across the Chicago metro area beginning late Friday night through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service Chicago.
Forecasters say snow will begin after midnight Friday and intensify Saturday morning, with snowfall rates of up to one inch per hour possible during the afternoon—the period expected to bring the worst travel conditions. The heaviest accumulations are forecast along and north of I-80, where 6–8 inches or more of snow are likely from DeKalb and Joliet to Valparaiso, IN.
Snow will gradually taper after sunset Saturday and may briefly mix with drizzle before ending early Sunday morning. Winds gusting up to 30 mph could cause reduced visibility, drifting snow, and slick roads, particularly on I-55, I-57, I-65, I-88, and I-94.
Officials urge residents to complete preparations tonight, have emergency supplies ready, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. If travel is unavoidable, drivers should slow down and allow extra time to reach their destinations safely.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for northern Illinois and northwest Indiana, including the entire Chicago metro region.
