Chicago Area Remains Under Winter Storm Warning as Heavy Snow Causes Travel Disruptions
CHICAGO – A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for much of the Chicago area Monday as heavy snowfall continues to create hazardous travel conditions, leading to widespread flight cancellations and expressway closures.
A significant winter storm brought heavy snow and strong winds to the region overnight, impacting travel across Illinois and Indiana. Express buses were not running on DuSable Lake Shore Drive early Monday morning,and some expressways became impassable. Poor visibility was reported on parts of I-57 south of Chicago and I-65 in Indiana, were overhead lighting is limited, with numerous vehicles reported in ditches.
Indiana State Police Sgt. Glen Fifield urged commuters to reduce speed and prepare for significant delays. “Don’t plan on getting to where you’re going anytime soon,” Fifield said. “Expect it to take extra time to get where you’re going.” He advised motorists to carry water, food, and blankets in case of being stranded, and to remain in their vehicles following any crashes until first responders arrive.
O’Hare International Airport was closed to non-scheduled operations and general aviation overnight, with 243 flights canceled for Monday morning. Midway International Airport also reported 130 flight cancellations.
The Winter Storm Warning is in effect through noon Monday for affected parts of Cook and eastern Will counties in Illinois. Kankakee County’s warning begins at midnight Monday and also extends through noon. lake and Porter counties in Indiana are under a warning through 6 p.m.Monday,while LaPorte County’s warning is in effect until midnight Tuesday morning. A Winter Storm Warning is also in effect for Lake County, Illinois, until 6 a.m. Monday. Winter Weather Advisories are active for DuPage and western Will counties in Illinois, as well as Newton and Jasper counties in Indiana.
Snowfall rates of up to 3 inches per hour are still possible. Total snowfall is expected to reach 4 to 6 inches widely, with localized totals of 8 to 10 inches, and isolated areas potentially receiving 12 to 14 inches – particularly along and just inland from the lake shore.
Residents can find updated details on road conditions at chicagoshovels.org.
