60 MPH Gusts Possible Ahead Of Accumulating Snow In Chicago Area: Forecast Timeline

Peak wind gusts near 50 mph have already been recorded Wednesday morning, as a cold and blustery day is expected for the Chicago area ahead of a snowy weekend.

Rockford saw a 53 mph gust; West Chicago, Wheeling and Waukegan saw 49 mph gusts; and Chicago had a 48 mph gust.

"Gusts will increase after daybreak. Take care if traveling on [north/south] roads," the weather service advised. A wind advisory remains in effect for the Chicago area through 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Wind-whipped snow showers and flurries are also possible on Wednesday, and the high for the day is 37 degrees. However, wind chills will be around 15 to 20 degrees, according to the weather service.

Thanksgiving Day on Thursday will not be quite as windy, but still "blustery and cold," the weather service said.

Then, accumulating snow is expected to impact travel in the area starting late Friday night through Saturday night, according to the weather service.

"While there's a 90 to 100 percent chance of at least some snow accumulation in the forecast, it's still 3-4 days out, too early to narrow down specific details with this system," the weather service noted.

The snow could mix with or change to rain on Saturday night, which would cut into snow accumulations. However, the strength and track of the system is still uncertain.

Right now, the weather service advises staying tuned for updates and planning ahead for possible travel disruptions.