URGENT UPDATE: Dangerous travel conditions have emerged across the Chicago area following a significant overnight snowfall. As of 4 a.m. on December 4, 2023, ABC7 meteorologists have issued an AccuWeather Alert, warning commuters to expect treacherous roads during the morning rush hour.
The snowfall, especially intense in areas affected by lake-effect snow, has resulted in snow accumulation rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, with some regions already reporting over 3 inches. Light snow showers are expected to persist throughout Monday afternoon, raising concerns for continued hazardous driving conditions.
In response to these severe weather conditions, several schools across the Chicago area and Northwest Indiana have announced closures and delayed starts. The latest weather reports indicate that areas under a Winter Storm Warning could see additional snowfall totaling between 3 and 6 inches.
Air travel is also being severely impacted. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reduced operations this week, compounding the situation. Over 400 flights were canceled at Chicago airports on Sunday, with significant delays affecting passengers. As of Monday morning, O’Hare International Airport reported 231 cancellations and average delays of 24 minutes, while Midway International Airport faced 130 cancellations with average delays of 15 minutes.
The City of Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation is actively deploying salt-spreader trucks to improve road safety. Officials urge residents to exercise caution while driving and to ensure their safety during these severe winter conditions.
A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for several counties, including:
– Starke, Marshall, LaPorte, St. Joseph, and Berrien counties until midnight Tuesday.
– Indiana’s Lake and Porter counties until 6 p.m. Monday.
– Illinois’ Lake County until 9 a.m. Monday.
– Cook and Will counties until noon Monday.
– Kankakee County until noon Monday.
– A Winter Weather Advisory is also in effect for DuPage and Will counties until noon Monday, and for Indiana’s Newton and Jasper counties from midnight to 6 p.m. Monday.
Stay tuned for updates as conditions evolve and authorities continue to monitor this developing situation. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions during this winter storm.
