Wind, potential snow, on tap today

Batten down the hatches because the wind will be gusty today.

Meteorologists are predicting winds will blow through the Chicago area at about 40 mph throughout the day, gusting to as high as 60 mph at certain times.

A wind advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service until 9 p.m.tonight.

The advisory states winds will increase to 40 mph throughout the day, with occasional gusts hitting over 50 mph.

The wind could cause lightweight or unsecured objects to blow away. Motorists are also asked to keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and expect driving to become increasingly difficult. Minor property damage and possible power outages should be expected during the storm, officials warn.

A lakeshore flood advisory also has been put into effect today as wind gusts are expected to cause waves of 15 to 20 feet on Lake Michigan.

The flood advisory is in effect until 10 a.m. Wednesday morning, officials announced.

Snow is also possible throughout the area, officials said, though the snow isn’t expected to reach the northern portions of the state. Snow is expected south of the city, with rainfall totals noticed north of the city.

Temperatures are expected to reach a high of 43 degrees today, with an overnight low of 27 degrees, officials said.