A major winter storm is taking aim at Central Illinois, bringing the potential for heavy snowfall, hazardous roads, and even power outages. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Watch that will remain in effect from Wednesday morning through late Wednesday night, warning residents to prepare now for rapidly deteriorating conditions.
Forecasters say that snowfall rates could reach 1 inch per hour at times, making it nearly impossible for plows to keep up. Travel conditions are expected to go from bad to worse as the day progresses, with the worst of the storm hitting during Wednesday’s evening commute.
Which Areas Will Be Hit the Hardest?
The storm is expected to impact a wide swath of central, north-central, and northeastern Illinois, including major counties such as:
- Cook
- DeKalb
- DuPage
- Grundy
- Kane
- Kankakee
- Kendall
- La Salle
- Lee
- McHenry
- Ogle
- Whiteside
- Will
Residents in these areas should prepare for significant snow accumulation, poor visibility, and extremely slick roads throughout the day on Wednesday.
Timing and Expected Snowfall
- Early Wednesday morning: Light snow is expected to start falling in the morning hours, making roads slippery but still drivable.
- Afternoon & evening: The storm will intensify, bringing heavier snowfall rates of up to 1 inch per hour, leading to dangerous travel conditions.
- Late Wednesday night: The snow will begin to taper off, but residual impacts on roads and highways could last well into Thursday morning.
Some areas could see more than 6 inches of snow, making this one of the most significant winter storms of the season so far.
What This Means for Travel
This storm has the potential to cripple travel across the region. Roads will become slick and snow-covered in a matter of hours, and whiteout conditions could make driving extremely dangerous.
- Major traffic delays and road closures are likely.
- Highway conditions will worsen as snow accumulates.
- Flights at local airports could be delayed or canceled.
If you don’t have to travel on Wednesday, it’s best to stay home. If you must be on the road, make sure your car is equipped with an emergency kit, including blankets, food, water, and a flashlight in case you get stranded.
Power Outages a Growing Concern
Another concern with this storm is wet, heavy snow weighing down power lines and trees. This could lead to power outages in some areas, especially in rural parts of the state. Officials recommend charging phones and gathering emergency supplies now in case outages occur.
How to Stay Safe
Here’s what you should do now to prepare for this winter storm:
- Limit travel: Stay off the roads if you can. If you have to drive, allow extra time and drive slowly.
- Stock up on essentials: Get groceries, medications, and other necessities before the storm arrives.
- Prepare for potential power outages: Keep extra blankets, flashlights, and battery-powered chargers handy.
- Check on family and neighbors: Elderly and vulnerable individuals may need help preparing for the storm.
How Long Will This Last?
The Winter Storm Watch remains in effect until late Wednesday night, but roads and travel conditions could remain poor into Thursday morning. Plow crews will be working around the clock, but clearing roads may take time, especially with snowfall rates this high.
Final Warning: Take This Storm Seriously
This isn’t just another light snowfall—this is a storm that could disrupt travel, close roads, and even knock out power in some areas. Officials are urging residents to take precautions now before conditions become too dangerous.
