Weather could be worse, and it's heading our way

Winter storm warning in effect till 6 a.m. Friday

[February 04, 2010]  Yes, the temperatures have been downright bone-chilling and the patches of ice have been a concern for pedestrians and motorists alike. But it could be worse. And it looks like it will be for the rest of the week. A heavy snow followed by subzero temperatures is in the forecast. With possibility of significant snow amounts, high winds are expected to create drifting and whiteout conditions that will make travel hazardous or maybe impossible.

Local responders are preparing with snowmobiles and teams now on standby. Local fire departments have been designated as warming stations that people may need, particularly if the power would go out.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning in effect from 9 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Friday.

Snow is expected to begin moving into west-central Illinois around sunset Wednesday, spreading east across the state Wednesday evening. The heaviest snowfall is likely overnight into Thursday morning, with the precipitation lessening Thursday afternoon.

Accumulations of 5 to 6 inches are likely across much of the area.

Northwest winds will increase to 15 to 25 mph by Thursday afternoon with higher gusts.

This amount of snow will cause significant travel hazards beginning Wednesday evening. Because this will be a rather dry snow, significant blowing and drifting is expected to develop by midday Thursday as the winds increase.

Blowing snow will continue to be a problem through Thursday night, even after the falling snow has ended.

Then for the weekend, subzero temperatures are in the forecast.

A winter storm watch means there is a potential for significant snow accumulations that may affect travel. Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

[National Weather Service, LDN]

Severe weather alert link:
http://www.EmergencyEmail.org/
wxl/wxl17107-55000.09.asp

Your local forecast:
http://www.Emergencyemail.org/wx/us/IL/17107.asp