Lake-Effect Snow to Snarl Chicago-Area Commutes

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The Chicago area is bracing for several rounds of lake-effect snow on Friday, which could significantly impact both the morning and evening commutes in different parts of the region. A winter weather advisory has been issued for Lake, DuPage and Cook counties, with the potential for 4-6 inches of snow in some areas. A winter storm watch is also in effect for central and southern Cook County, as well as Lake and Porter counties in Indiana, where snowfall rates could exceed 1-2 inches per hour at times.

Why it matters

Lake-effect snow can create treacherous driving conditions with reduced visibility and rapidly accumulating snow, posing a serious threat to public safety and transportation. This weather event could significantly disrupt commutes and travel plans for many in the Chicago metropolitan area.

The details

The first round of lake-effect snow is expected to hit northeastern Illinois on Friday morning, with the heaviest snowfall likely occurring close to Lake Michigan. As the day progresses, a second, more intense band of lake-effect snow is forecast to move onshore, potentially dropping 4-6 inches of snow in parts of Chicago and the immediate southern suburbs. Gusty northerly winds will also push heavy snow bands into northwest Indiana, which could impact the evening commute in that region.

• The first round of lake-effect snow is expected Friday morning.
• A winter weather advisory is in effect for Lake, DuPage and Cook counties through Friday afternoon.
• A winter storm watch will take effect in central and southern portions of Cook County on Friday afternoon.
• A winter storm watch will also be in effect for Lake and Porter counties in Indiana on Friday afternoon, lasting through Saturday afternoon.
• The heaviest snow is expected to fall on Friday, with lingering lake-effect snow possible on Saturday morning in northwest Indiana.

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and issue updated forecasts and advisories as the lake-effect snow event unfolds on Friday.