Chicago Snowfall Forecast: Expect Slick Roads for Morning Commute
In the wee hours of Tuesday morning, a swift snowfall swept across the Chicago area, prompting concerns of slippery roads and challenging conditions for the morning rush hour. The NBC 5 Storm Team issued warnings of potentially slick and hazardous roadways as the snow moved from west to east.
As the clock struck 5:20 a.m., the NBC 5 Live Doppler Radar detected light snowfall covering most Chicago-area counties. In some areas like Kendall, LaSalle, and Grundy Counties, the snowfall intensified to a more moderate level, as reported by NBC 5 Meteorologist Alicia Roman. The snowfall was projected to linger in Northeast Illinois until mid-morning before advancing into Northwest Indiana, potentially causing reduced visibility.
### Snowfall Accumulations
The quick-moving snow system was anticipated to result in minor accumulations of “white, fluffy snow,” Roman explained. The level of snowfall would vary depending on the location, with some areas receiving between one and two inches of snow, while others might only experience a light dusting. Looking ahead, the next snowfall opportunity was predicted for Friday night and into Saturday morning, potentially bringing a mix of rain and snow to the region.
### Plummeting Temperatures
In addition to the snowfall, Tuesday morning greeted residents with bitter cold temperatures, with highs hovering in the teens and wind chills plunging into single digits. The National Weather Service (NWS) cautioned that temperatures would drop further as a cold front traversed the area, leading to wind chills ranging from -10 to -15°F by noon. These frigid conditions could complicate snow removal efforts once the snowfall subsided.
As Wednesday unfolds, the cold weather is expected to persist, but a warming trend is on the horizon towards the end of the week. Roman anticipated temperatures rising into the 30s on Thursday and reaching the 40s by Friday, offering a reprieve from the icy conditions. However, this respite will be short-lived, as temperatures are projected to plummet back into the teens by Sunday, followed by bitter cold in the single digits early next week.
With the volatile weather conditions looming, Chicagoans are advised to exercise caution, prepare for challenging commutes, and bundle up to combat the icy chill. Stay tuned for further updates and weather advisories as the week progresses to navigate the winter weather rollercoaster with ease.
