Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Chicago: 3 to 6 Inches of Snow Expected Wednesday

Chicago residents should brace for another round of winter weather as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter weather advisory for the area. The advisory is in effect from 9 a.m. Wednesday to 3 a.m. Thursday, with 3 to 6 inches of snow expected throughout the day.

While the expected snowfall is less than initially predicted, the storm is still likely to cause significant disruptions to daily activities. City officials are urging caution, particularly for those who will be on the roads during peak travel hours.

When Will the Snow Arrive?

According to meteorologists, the first snowfall may begin as a light dusting in the morning, but the heaviest snowfall is expected to arrive in the afternoon. This will likely cause hazardous road conditions, particularly during the evening commute.

Kevin Donofrio, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, emphasized the worsening conditions later in the day:

“It’s going to be kind of nasty during the afternoon tomorrow.”

The storm’s intensity is expected to peak between the afternoon and evening hours, making it difficult for drivers to navigate city streets.

In addition to the snowfall, strong winds and colder temperatures will further impact visibility, making travel conditions even more dangerous.

How Will the Winter Storm Impact Chicago?

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) has warned that the snowfall will likely cause significant disruptions in several key areas:

Evening Commute: The afternoon and evening rush hours could see heavy traffic, slick roads, and reduced visibility.

Public Transportation: The CTA and Metra may experience delays due to snow accumulation, requiring commuters to allow for extra travel time.

Thursday Morning Commute: Although the snowfall will likely end overnight, lingering snow and ice could still pose a hazard for those heading to work or school Thursday morning.

Street Parking Restrictions: The city’s overnight parking ban will be enforced from 3 to 7 a.m. Wednesday. Residents are advised to check parking signage to avoid tickets or towing.

Safety Precautions for Chicago Residents

City officials are urging residents to prepare in advance to avoid unnecessary risks. Some key safety recommendations include:

Drive with Caution: Slow down, keep a safe distance between vehicles, and watch out for icy patches on the road.

Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your car has winter tires, an ice scraper, extra blankets, and emergency supplies in case of delays.

Avoid Travel If Possible: If you can work from home or postpone trips, doing so is the safest option.

Stay Updated on Weather Reports: Monitor National Weather Service alerts and local news for real-time updates on the storm.

Use Warming Centers If Needed: The city has warming centers available for those in need, though some locations will be closed for Lincoln’s Birthday on Wednesday.

Residents in need of shelter or warmth can find warming center locations on the city’s website.

City’s Response and Snow Removal Plans

Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation is fully prepared to deploy plows and salt trucks to clear the roads as efficiently as possible. Plowing operations will prioritize major roads, highways, and emergency routes first, before moving to residential neighborhoods.

However, with heavy snowfall expected during peak hours, road conditions may still be challenging for drivers even after plows have passed. The city is urging drivers to be patient and allow extra travel time.

Pedestrians should also be cautious, as sidewalks and crosswalks may become slippery. Business owners and residents are reminded to clear snow from sidewalks in front of their properties to help reduce the risk of falls.

What to Expect After the Storm?

The snowfall is expected to taper off late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning, but the storm’s effects will still linger. Temperatures will drop overnight, causing any melted snow to refreeze, leading to the possibility of black ice on roads and sidewalks.

City officials have advised early morning commuters to drive carefully and allow extra time to reach their destinations.

While the snowstorm may not be as severe as initially forecasted, its impact could still be significant, particularly for those traveling on Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Chicago is no stranger to harsh winter conditions, but this latest storm serves as a reminder to always be prepared. Taking precautions now can help prevent accidents and unnecessary disruptions.

Although the total snowfall is estimated to be between 3 to 6 inches, its timing during peak hours will make commuting difficult. Whether driving, using public transportation, or walking, residents should exercise caution, plan ahead, and stay informed to navigate the winter weather safely.

For continued updates, Chicagoans should follow local news reports, monitor weather alerts, and check city advisories on road conditions and emergency services.

Stay safe, stay warm, and be prepared for winter’s latest challenge!

Disclaimer

This content has been created by an AI language model and is intended to provide general information. While we strive to deliver accurate and reliable content, it may not always reflect the latest developments or expert opinions. The content should not be considered as professional or personalized advice. We encourage you to seek professional guidance and verify the information independently before making decisions based on this content.

This information is sourced from Chicago Tribune