Weekend winter storm could bring 6 to 10 inches of snow to suburbs

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the entire Chicago region, forecasting as much as 10 inches of snow in some areas over the weekend.

The warning goes into effect at 3 a.m. Saturday and lasts through 6 a.m. Sunday.

“Heavy snow expected,” the warning reads. “Total snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches. Locally higher amounts possible northwest of an Ottawa to Aurora to Waukegan line.”

According to the weather service, the storm’s intensity will pick up around sunrise Saturday and snow could fall at rates of as much as an inch per hour by afternoon. Snowfall will taper off in the evening hours and may change to drizzle as the back edge of the storm moves through.

Travel could be very difficult during the snowfall, according to the weather service, and those who need to be on the road are encouraged to keep an extra flashlight, food and water in their vehicle in case of an emergency.

“While this will be a fairly ‘typical’ winter storm event for our area, travel impacts will likely be exacerbated by high holiday traffic volumes,” the weather service reported. “Consider altering travel plans, if possible.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police issued a joint statement Friday telling drivers to expect reduced visibility and slick, slippery conditions with much longer travel times.

“The forecasted winter weather could lead to hazardous driving conditions,” state police Col. Chris Owen said. “Think about whether driving is really necessary. Depending on the amount of snow and road conditions, if your vehicle becomes disabled, troopers can help you get to a safe place, but your vehicle will have to wait. Is it worth it?”

IDOT said crews spent Friday been pretreating roads and loading plows with salt and other materials. Statewide, the agency has nearly 1,900 trucks and equipment available to spread salt, plow snow and respond to weather emergencies across more than 45,000 lanes miles.

Colder temperatures will move in after the storm, with single-digit lows in the forecast overnight Sunday and Monday. A lighter patch of snow is possible Monday night, according to the weather service.