Urgent Snowfall Hits Chicago: Hazardous Driving Conditions Persist

UPDATE: Heavy snow continues to impact the Chicago area this Sunday morning, creating hazardous driving conditions across the region. As of 5 a.m., the National Weather Service has issued multiple alerts, warning residents to exercise caution while navigating slick roads.

Snowfall began late Saturday, occurring between 9 p.m. and midnight, and is expected to taper off from west to east between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. this morning, according to ABC7 Chicago AccuWeather Meteorologist Jaisol Martinez. Areas are forecast to receive 2 to 3 inches of snow, with some northern regions north of Interstate 80 potentially seeing totals of up to 4 inches.

In locations such as Kankakee, southern Will, Grundy, and southern LaSalle counties, rain may mix with snow, impacting overall accumulation. By early morning, southern areas were primarily experiencing lingering flurries, Martinez reported.

The situation remains critical, as ABC7 meteorologists have issued an AccuWeather Alert for this morning. Roads have become slick and snow-covered, prompting the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications to advise drivers to slow down and proceed with caution.

“DSS will activate a Phase II snow program overnight. More than 220 salt spreaders will be out citywide,” stated the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation. “Crews will monitor arterial streets, DLSD, bridges, and overpasses to ensure roads are safe and passable for emergency vehicles, public transportation, and other travelers.”

Lake-effect snow is expected to linger in both Illinois and Indiana through midday. As temperatures are set to drop this afternoon, additional snowfall could blanket parts of the region in the evening, adding up to another inch in some areas.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant as more snow is anticipated this week, culminating in a significant temperature drop on Saturday. Stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve throughout the day.