URGENT UPDATE: Overnight snowfall across the Chicago area has created dangerous road conditions for morning commuters. ABC7 meteorologists have issued an AccuWeather Alert for today, warning of hazardous travel conditions as snowfall continues.
Reports indicate that some regions experienced intense lake-effect snow, with accumulation rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour. Several areas have already reached over 3 inches of snow, and forecasts predict an additional 3 to 6 inches could fall throughout the day. Light snow showers are expected to persist into the afternoon.
As of 4 a.m. Monday, Chicago airports are facing significant disruptions. Over 400 flights have been canceled, with O’Hare International Airport recording 231 cancellations and average delays of 24 minutes. Midway International Airport reported 130 cancellations and average delays of 15 minutes, causing frustration for travelers.
The City of Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation is actively deploying salt-spreader trucks to combat the severe winter weather. Officials urge residents to exercise caution while driving and to stay updated on road conditions.
A series of Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories are in effect throughout the region. Key areas affected include:
- Starke, Marshall, LaPorte, and St. Joseph counties until midnight Tuesday
- Lake and Porter counties in Indiana until 6 p.m. Monday
- Cook and Will counties in Illinois until noon Monday
- Kankakee County until noon Monday
- DuPage and Will counties under advisory until noon Monday
- Newton and Jasper counties in Indiana from midnight to 6 p.m. Monday
The ongoing storm, coupled with reduced operations from the FAA, has compounded travel difficulties. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and residents are encouraged to prepare for potentially severe conditions.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for further updates on weather conditions and travel advisories as they unfold.
