If you thought winter was done messing with us, think again! A winter storm is set to sweep through Iowa and Illinois on Wednesday, bringing 6+ inches of snow, slippery roads, and all the reasons to stay indoors if you can. With snow expected to fall throughout the day, both the morning and evening commutes are looking messy. Here’s what’s coming and how to get through it.
What’s Going On?
A powerful winter system is rolling in, pulling cold air and moisture across the Midwest. The result? Steady snowfall that could pile up fast. It’s the kind of storm where snowplows will be working overtime and cars will be sliding around if drivers aren’t careful. If you’ve got errands to run, you might want to do them before the flakes start falling.
Who’s Getting Hit the Hardest?
🌨️ Iowa:
- Des Moines and surrounding areas are under a Winter Storm Warning from midnight Tuesday through midnight Wednesday.
- Snow totals will range between 5 to 8 inches, with heavier amounts possible in localized areas.
- Expect snow to start early Wednesday morning and stick around all day.
🌨️ Illinois:
- Much of northern and central Illinois, including Chicago, is under a Winter Storm Watch from Wednesday morning through late Wednesday night.
- Forecasts show 6+ inches of snow, with areas near Lake Michigan potentially seeing even more due to lake-effect snow.
- Snow will start around sunrise and continue well into the night.
What to Expect:
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Heavy Snowfall
This storm isn’t bringing a light dusting—it’s coming in strong, with snowfall rates up to 1 inch per hour during peak times. That’s enough to quickly coat roads and make driving dangerous. -
Poor Visibility
Heavy snow combined with wind could make visibility drop to near zero at times, especially in rural areas or open fields. Be prepared for “whiteout” conditions on highways. -
Slippery Roads and Icy Surfaces
Snow that falls on untreated roads, driveways, and sidewalks will quickly freeze as temperatures stay below freezing. Morning and evening commutes are expected to be slippery and slow-going.
Timing Breakdown:
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Iowa:
- Snow kicks off early Wednesday morning and ramps up by mid-morning. Expect heavy snow throughout the day, with conditions gradually improving by late evening.
-
Illinois:
- Snow will move in around sunrise Wednesday, with the heaviest snowfall expected between mid-morning and evening. The snow should start to taper off late Wednesday night.
How to Prepare:
🚗 Travel Tips:
- If you can avoid traveling, stay home. But if you need to be on the road, drive carefully and plan for delays.
- Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
- Watch for black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first.
🏠 Prep Your Home:
- Make sure you’ve got enough groceries and essentials to get you through a couple of days.
- Charge your devices ahead of time in case of power outages.
- Keep extra blankets on hand and check that your heating system is working properly.
🐶 Protect Your Pets:
Don’t leave your pets outside for long in this weather. Bring them inside or provide warm shelter and fresh (non-frozen) water.
Key Concerns:
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Lake-Effect Snow:
If you live near Lake Michigan, be ready for heavier snowfall. Lake-effect snow could boost totals well beyond 6 inches in some areas. -
Quick Accumulation:
Snowfall rates of 1 inch per hour could make it hard for plows to keep up, especially during rush hours. Roads that seem clear one minute could be covered the next. -
Power Outages:
Although widespread outages aren’t expected, heavy, wet snow combined with gusty winds could bring down branches and power lines in some areas.
When Will It All Clear Up?
The storm should move out by late Wednesday night, but cold temperatures will stick around, keeping the snow on the ground. Thursday morning’s commute could still be slick, so don’t pack away those winter boots just yet.
This storm may not be the biggest of the season, but it’s still packing enough punch to disrupt travel and daily plans. If you don’t have to leave home, consider staying cozy indoors and watching the snow from your window. For those who do have to venture out, be patient, drive carefully, and give snowplows room to do their job.
