Chicago’s record-setting snow drought may finally be ending, as ingredients are coming together this morning for the first substantial accumulating snowfall for Chicago and much of Northern Illinois.
Snow will develop from the south to the north between 9-11 am across the area before changing to light rain and drizzle in the afternoon and evening hours. Early on, the heaviest snow will occur south of I-80, before shifting north of I-80 around noon. Most areas can expect a window of 2-5 hours of mixed precipitation with the potential for a few periods of moderate-to-heavy snow with lower visibilities. Additionally, areas of fog will likely develop late and persist into tonight.
Total accumulations from this storm will eventually favor northern sections with 1-2″ expected along the I-80 corridor and 2-4″ along and north of I-88. An isolated 5″ can’t be ruled out near IL/WI state line areas, including Rockford and McHenry County.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for all counties along and north of I-80 in Illinois and Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana from 9 am-3 pm for messy travel conditions expected.
Another chance of light snow is forecast for Wednesday evening, and we’re also watching the potential for a New Year’s Day snow event on Saturday.