After getting through most of the winter with below-average snowfall, Chicago is getting hit with a late-season storm that is expected to deliver accumulations of up to eight inches by the time it ends Tuesday night. If that prediction proves accurate, it will be the city’s biggest single snowfall this year.
The rate of snowfall has increased and visibility has declined around mid-afternoon, pretty much according to forecast. Main thoroughfares on Chicago’s North Side, including Lake Shore Drive, have been treated and are wet but mainly snow-free. Many side streets, however, are becoming snow-covered.
The following Winter Storm Warning issued by the National Weather Service at 11:19 central time remains in effect:
Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until midnight CST /1 am EST/ tonight...
* timing... snow will increase in intensity throughout the remainder of this morning into the afternoon hours. Then snow will continue through early this evening before tapering off
around midnight tonight.
* Snow accumulation... 7 to 10 inches with localized amounts up to 12 inches possible.
* Main impacts... accumulating snow will continue through this evening. Snow could fall rather heavily at times with snow fall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour possible this afternoon. Winds will
increase to 15 to 25 mph and gusty by this evening which could result in some blowing and drifting snow in open areas. Snow is expected to be falling at a good clip during this afternoons
rush hour... so plan accordingly for poor travel conditions.
* Other impacts... travel through o'hare and midway airports will likely be significantly affected by this storm.
Precautionary/preparedness actions...
A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Consider only traveling if in an emergency. If you must travel... keep an extra flashlight... food... and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
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