Chicago Braces for Major Snowstorm as Winter Weather Continues

CHICAGO (AP) — As snow continues to blanket the Chicago area, residents are bracing for what could be the heaviest snowfall of the season. Multiple weather systems are set to move through the region starting Wednesday, with significant accumulations expected on Friday and Saturday.

The latest weather update from the NBC 5 Storm Team indicates that light snow is currently affecting areas north of Interstate 80, while some mixed precipitation could hit the southern parts of the viewing area. A low-pressure system drifting south is expected to linger, generating an additional inch to an inch and a half of snow before tapering off late Wednesday evening.

Starting Thursday, the weather will clear up temporarily, providing sunny skies until Friday when snowfall returns, predominantly affecting locations north of Interstate 80. Initial accumulations may not be significant but could escalate when a new system reaches the area on Saturday.

“The system may start with snow in northern suburbs and a mix further south, but expect that to switch to all snow as temperatures drop,” said Meteorologist Christian Farr of NBC Chicago. “Several inches of accumulation could be possible before the storm clears out on Sunday morning.”

With winter weather advisories and warnings issued across several counties in Illinois and Indiana, public safety officials warn of hazardous travel conditions, particularly in the late afternoon hours of Wednesday onward. Heavy snow is anticipated to disrupt traffic, with low visibility reported. Areas like Wauconda, Illinois, and Valparaiso, Indiana, had already measured at least four inches of snow by Wednesday evening.

“Conditions are pretty bad right now,” said driver Jeffrey Jones. “Cars sliding all over the place. It’s tough out here.”

The winter storm coincides with a significant drop in temperatures, prompting additional concerns for commuters. By the weekend, temperatures are expected to plunge well below freezing, leading to wind chills between 5 and -5 degrees and lows below zero on Sunday and Monday nights.

Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation has over 300 snow vehicles equipped with 425,000 tons of salt ready to respond to the storm. Meanwhile, businesses that sell snow removal equipment have reported increased sales as residents prepare for the snowy conditions.

“We always check our neighbors to ensure they’re okay,” said Gino Bruno, a local homeowner. “We are stocked up on salt and ready for whatever comes.”

As the storm unfolds, city officials are advising residents to allow extra time for travel and exercise caution on the roads. The winter weather is projected to last into the new week, with temperatures remaining below average and continued chances for snowfall.

“We just started plowing and salting, and that’s what we’ll be doing throughout the day,” said Brian Spaid, a snow removal contractor in Streamwood. “We’re prepared for the worst.”