A winter weather advisory has expanded to include more counties in the Chicago area as forecasters predict several inches of snow beginning Tuesday evening. The initial advisory was set for Lake and McHenry counties at 8 p.m., extending until 6 a.m. Wednesday. Shortly thereafter, a second advisory was issued for Kenosha County from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Wednesday, as reported by the National Weather Service.
By early Tuesday afternoon, additional advisories were announced for DeKalb, Kane, DuPage, and northern and central Cook counties, effective from 10 p.m. Tuesday to 8 a.m. Wednesday. Travelers are warned to prepare for hazardous road conditions due to significant snow accumulation, which could affect Wednesday morning commutes.
Snowfall amounts are anticipated to range from 2 to 5 inches, particularly heavy near the Wisconsin-Illinois state line, where a more intense snowfall band is expected to develop. For Lake and McHenry counties, advisories indicate localized totals could reach 5 inches if heavier snowfall persists. In the remaining areas, snowfall is projected between 2 to 4 inches, with the highest totals in regions north of Interstates 88 and 290.
There is potential for a secondary wave of snow due to an incoming front on Wednesday, arriving around 5 p.m. in counties to the west, which could lead to further hazardous travel conditions during the afternoon and evening rush hour. This snow is predicted to be accompanied by gusty winds of up to 35 mph, resulting in blowing and drifting snow.
As the week progresses, temperatures are forecasted to drop significantly, with subzero conditions expected by Friday morning. Wind chills could plummet to -35 degrees or lower in areas north and west of Chicago. Saturday will see temperatures remaining below zero, though a slight warming trend into the teens is predicted by Sunday.
Travelers are urged to remain vigilant and adapt plans accordingly as winter weather continues to unfold in the region. The combination of snow and frigid temperatures serves as a reminder of the challenges the season can present, while emphasizing the importance of preparedness during such weather events.