January 11th 2024

WIND CHILL WATCH IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY EVENING THROUGH TUESDAY MORNING…

• WHAT…Heavy snow expected with a period of mixed precipitation along and south of a line from Sterling, Illinois to Fairfield, Iowa. Total snow accumulations of 7 to 14 inches, highest north of Highway 30, and ice accumulations of a light glaze. Northeast winds gusting up to 40 mph, turning to the northwest Friday afternoon. For the Wind Chill Watch, dangerously cold wind chills possible. Wind chills as low as 40 below zero.
• WHERE…Portions of north central and northwest Illinois and east central and northeast Iowa.
• WHEN…For the Winter Storm Warning, from 9 PM this evening to noon CST Saturday. For the Wind Chill Watch, from Saturday evening through Tuesday morning.
• IMPACTS…Travel will be very difficult and dangerous. Significant blowing and drifting snow will drop visibilities to a quarter mile or less at times. The hazardous conditions will impact the morning and evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. For later this weekend into early next week, dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.
• ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Moderate to heavy snow will overspread the area this evening from south to north. Some areas, south of Interstate 80 may see freezing rain and rain mixed at times Friday morning before quickly changing back to snow. Late Friday afternoon into the evening, much colder air moves in along with very strong northwest winds which will lead to significant blowing and drifting snow, and the potential for roadways to become icy. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS… If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.