Illinois Winter Storm: Timeline for ‘Significant’ Snowstorm Impact
Parts of Illinois, Indiana, and other Midwest states are on high alert as a major winter storm looms on the horizon, set to unleash heavy snow, near-blizzard conditions, and freezing rain. The storm is expected to be the largest snowfall in over a decade, causing significant disruptions across the region.
**The Forecast**
The “significant” snowstorm is projected to kick off Saturday evening across the Great Plains, with at least 8 inches of snow expected to blanket areas between central Kansas and Indiana as it moves eastward. Southern and central Illinois are bracing for a wintry mix of snow, sleet, and powerful gusts of up to 35 miles per hour.
**Winter Storm Warning**
A winter storm warning has been issued for the lower half of Illinois, where snowfall totals could reach between 11 and 16 inches. The National Weather Service Office in St. Louis has cautioned residents about the impending storm’s major impacts, urging them to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential power outages.
**Timeline of Events**
*Saturday Night*
While the bulk of the snow accumulation is expected on Sunday, minor impacts could start as early as Saturday night. Drivers in the St. Louis area and west-central Illinois are advised to stay off the roads as conditions are set to deteriorate rapidly.
*Sunday Morning and Afternoon*
A winter storm warning will come into effect for a significant portion of Illinois beginning at midnight on Sunday. Snowfall is predicted to begin along the Illinois-Missouri border in the central and southern regions of the state before 3 a.m. By sunrise, areas west of a line from Rushville to Effingham will start experiencing the storm’s effects.
Heavy snowfall is anticipated across much of the region in the afternoon, with some areas facing freezing rain. Travel is expected to be challenging, with areas of blowing snow potentially reducing visibility.
*Sunday Night and Monday*
The heavy snow and blowing conditions are expected to persist through Sunday night and early Monday in central Illinois. Hazardous driving conditions will likely linger through the morning commute, with some areas waking up to over a foot of snow. The situation is expected to improve by late morning, with the winter storm warning likely to be lifted at noon.
**Chicago Area Concerns**
The Chicago area is not in the clear either, as snowfall could impact both Monday morning and evening commutes. Lake effect snow may lead to slippery road conditions in several counties across northern Illinois and northwest Indiana. Motorists are urged to exercise caution, slow down, increase traveling distances, and plan for extra travel time.
As the storm picks up intensity, snowfall will vary across the region, with localized bands producing between 1 and 3 inches of snow. The city and south suburban areas are expected to see around 1.5 inches of accumulation, adding an extra layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.
Stay safe, stay informed, and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
