If you’re in the northern part of Illinois, especially near the Wisconsin border, you might want to prepare for a messy Wednesday. Starting in the morning, expect a combination of rain and snow to roll through, making for a wet and potentially slippery day. While the snow isn’t expected to pile up too much, the mixture of rain and snow could still cause some travel disruptions. Let’s break it down.
What to Expect:
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Rain Changing to Snow: Things will start off with rain tomorrow morning, but as temperatures dip, you’ll start to see the rain turn to snow. By mid-morning and into the afternoon, the mix of rain and snow will be in full swing. Areas near Rockford, Freeport, and the rest of the Illinois-Wisconsin border will be most affected, but even places a little farther south could feel the effects.
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Timing: The rain will transition into snow by late morning, and the wintry mix will stick around throughout the afternoon. Things should start to clear up by 7 PM, but for most of the day, you’ll be dealing with the rain-to-snow shift. So, if you have to go out, try to plan for the afternoon when conditions will be the trickiest.
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Snowfall: You’re not looking at heavy snow, but light accumulations of up to 1 inch are possible, especially as the day wears on. It won’t be enough to cause a full-on snowstorm, but the wet conditions will make roads slick and could cause some delays. Even a little snow and slush can be dangerous on untreated surfaces, so be cautious while driving or walking.
How This Affects You:
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Driving: For anyone driving tomorrow, the combination of rain and snow is going to make for tricky conditions. While snow accumulation might not be heavy, wet roads can still be slippery, especially on bridges and overpasses. You’ll also need to watch for reduced visibility as the snow falls. If you’re on the road during the heaviest mix, drive slow, keep your distance from other cars, and use your headlights to stay visible.
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Outdoor Activities: Got outdoor plans? It’s probably a good idea to rethink them. Whether you’re walking, running, or just enjoying a break outdoors, the combination of rain and snow will make things feel uncomfortable and slick. If you do have to go outside, be sure to bundle up and wear waterproof gear to stay dry, but take care on those potentially icy sidewalks.
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Commuting or School: If you’re heading to work or school, give yourself a little extra time tomorrow. The wet and slushy conditions will likely slow down traffic, and roads might be slick, especially during the transition from rain to snow. It’s always better to leave a bit earlier than usual if you can.
Tips for Staying Safe:
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Drive Cautiously: As always, take it slow when driving in mixed weather. If you’re out during the snow, make sure to leave extra space between you and other drivers. Roads could be slippery, and sudden braking or sharp turns can cause skidding. Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than regular roads, so be extra careful there. If conditions get worse, pull over to a safe spot and wait for the worst of it to pass.
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Dress for the Weather: With rain turning to snow, you’ll want to dress in layers. A waterproof outer layer will help keep you dry, and warm clothes underneath will keep you comfortable. Also, make sure your shoes have a good grip—wet and slushy sidewalks can be tricky to navigate.
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Stay Updated: Weather can change quickly, so keep an eye on the forecast tomorrow. If you’re planning to go out, be flexible in case conditions worsen. It’s always good to have a backup plan, just in case the weather throws a curveball.
What’s Next:
By 7 PM, things should start to clear up, and the snow and rain will move out of the area. But be mindful of lingering slush on the roads and sidewalks into the evening—especially if you’re out after dark when temperatures tend to drop. It might be a little messy until then, but things will calm down soon after.
In a Nutshell:
Wednesday will bring a mix of rain and snow to northern Illinois, especially near the Wisconsin border. While snow accumulation won’t be too heavy, expect slick roads and some uncomfortable outdoor conditions throughout the day. If you have to drive, take it slow, and make sure to bundle up if you’re heading outside. Stay safe, and be ready for a rainy, snowy, and slushy day tomorrow!
