Snow moving out, cold moving in
An overnight snowstorm has left between 1-inch and 6-inches on the ground, but the snowstorm is slowly moving out of the area while cold weather moves in.
Officials said the heavy, wet snow, is forcing slow commute times throughout the area, and people are urged to slow down to avoid potential accidents.
A winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service remains in effect until 1 p.m. for Cook, DuPage, Will and nearby counties to the south. For Kane, Lake and DeKalb counties, the service has issued only a winter weather advisory. But significant snow and wind is still forecast.
“Rain is expected to change to snow by mid to late this evening from north to south,” the service's warning said Tuesday.
Wind gusts of up to 40 mph were reported at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago. Blowing snow and near-blizzard conditions at times are expected due to the winds, the weather said.
“Travel will likely become treacherous due to snow covered roads and significantly reduced visibility late tonight through Wednesday morning,” the warning said Tuesday.
The snow is expected to linger through the morning before cold weather moves back in to the area.
Meteorologists are forecasting a high of only 28 degrees today before it dips to 8 degrees overnight tonight.
The Illinois State Police is urging drivers to keep extra water, food and warm clothing in their vehicles, and to contact the nearest police department if involved in a crash.
State police also say to change lanes and slow down around emergency vehicles on the road.
ABC 7 Chicago lists weather advisories on its website.