'Rapidly Deteriorating' Conditions: Algonquin, LITH Snowstorm

ALGONQUIN AND LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL — A winter weather advisory is in effect for McHenry County, and across the Chicago area, through 1 p.m. Thursday as "rapidly deteriorating conditions and hazardous travel" is expected amid the first snowfall of the season , weather officials said.

The snowfall is expected to start between 8 and 9 a.m. in the northern Chicago area and will "quickly overspread northeastern Illinois" — moving from north to south Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service. Snowfall rates of one inch or more per hour during heavier bursts are possible and there could also be wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph.

Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches is possible throughout the snowstorm. The snowfall is expected to taper off in the afternoon and change to rain and drizzle before melting.

During the afternoon hours, wind gusts as high as 50 mph are also possible.

Helpful websites and information during winter storms

• Winter road conditions: Illinois Department of Transportation
• McHenry County Sheriff Facebook page
• National Weather Service website and Facebook page