Winds Could Hit 35-40 MPH This Afternoon as Snow Blows In: Weather Alert

At this hour, icier and snowier conditions are in the west.

Snow and blowing snow has moved into parts of northern Illinois from the west, according to the National Weather Service. Visibility is reduced to a half mile in Rockford as the wind and snow pick up at this hour.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect till 9 p.m. Thursday. Snow and blowing snow will be a problem for the afternoon and early evening across the region. Winds are expected to reach 35 to 40 miles per hour, the NWS predicts.

» Local Resource: Check Illinois Road Conditions

“Snow will continue to overspread much of northern Illinois early this afternoon. Periods of moderate to heavy snow can be expected, which combined with areas of blowing snow could reduce the visibilities down to a quarter mile or less at times,” the NWS states. “This will make travel hazardous across the area as area roads become snow covered. Snow amounts of 1 to 2 inches are expected across far northern Illinois this afternoon.”

» Photo Gallery: You’re Adorable When You’re Cold, Chicago

Temperatures earlier today ranges from 5 below zero at the lakefront to 10 below zero in the western suburbs. The record low temperature on this date was 11 below zero in 1942, the NWS said.

» Wow! Bowling Ball-Sized Ice Ball Falls from Sky Through Chicago Man’s Roof

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