Chicago Weather Forecast: ‘Clipper System’ Bringing 1-2 Inches of Snow to Northern Illinois
Snow is expected to grace the Chicago area on Thursday as a clipper storm system sweeps in from the west to the east. The NBC 5 Storm Team has been closely monitoring the situation, offering crucial insights into the potential snowfall amounts across the region. The amount of snow you might see will largely depend on your location.
Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes, part of the NBC 5 team, shared that the system is projected to enter the area around 1 p.m. on Thursday, bringing with it accumulating light snow throughout the evening. While some areas may witness up to two inches of snow, counties to the north and west could receive just a dusting, or possibly even less.
Snowfall Details
The National Weather Service also chimed in on the situation, indicating that snow will initially develop across portions of northern Illinois, primarily south of the Dixon to Kankakee line. The snowfall is expected to persist into the evening, extending into northwest Indiana.
As the snowflakes descend, untreated roadways are likely to accumulate snow, leading to potentially hazardous travel conditions. Motorists are advised to exercise caution and be prepared for slick spots on the roads.
Weather Patterns and Impact
Following the snowfall, colder temperatures are set to take over the region. Thursday is anticipated to be one of the warmest days in the Chicago area for the next couple of weeks, with temperatures hovering around the low 30s during the day and dropping into the teens overnight. Come Friday morning, stronger wind gusts and lower wind chills will make the temperatures feel even chillier, resembling single-digit levels.
As Friday progresses, temperatures are forecasted to plummet into the 20s, ushering in a chilly start to the weekend.
Future Weather Developments
While the clipper system is expected to bid adieu to the region, another weather event is on the horizon. NBC 5 Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes highlighted that the next significant chance for snowfall is slated for Sunday. However, the current trajectory of this system suggests that heavy snowfall might bypass the Chicago area, concentrating more on Central and Southern Illinois.
Jeanes mentioned that a “major winter storm” is brewing for Sunday, with the likelihood of six to eight inches of snow south of I-74, coupled with lake-effect snow in Northern Michigan. Although the current trajectory points towards sparing the Chicago area, weather patterns are known to be unpredictable, leaving room for changes in the storm’s path.
The impending snowstorm presents an opportune moment to check your winter gear, ensure your vehicles are ready for cold weather conditions, and brace yourself for the winter wonderland that is about to unfold. Stay tuned for further updates on the evolving weather situation and prepare to embrace the beauty and challenges that the snowy weather brings!
Would you rather be snowed in with a good book or take on the winter wonderland outside? Let us know in the comments below!
