Winter storm warning continues, blizzard warning this afternoon

A winter storm warning continues for the suburbs until 2 p.m. today, and the National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning from 2 p.m. today until midnight.

The National Weather Service has upgraded the anticipated snowfall to a winter storm warning in effect from 6 p.m. Saturday to 12 a.m. Monday.

“Snowfall amounts have increased,” Meteorologist Amy Seeley said. “Most of the area will see the 8- to 12-inch range, while parts of northwest Indiana, southern Cook and Will counties could see 14 inches.”

This afternoon, winds are forecasted to increase to 20-30 mph, with some gusts to 40 mph.

“Another concern we're looking at is having gusty winds in the afternoon with gusts of up to 40 mph that could cause possible near blizzard-like conditions,” Seeley said.

Snow-covered roads will make travel hazardous, and air travel is expected to be impacted.

The National Weather Service recommends people only travel in an emergency and pack a flashlight and food and water in your vehicle in case of emergency.

“Obviously, if they don't have to travel, they probably shouldn't,” Seeley said.