An intense band of lake effect snow socked the Chicago region during Friday’s morning commute, with totals of 8 or more inches expected in some parts of the area, according to the National Weather Service.
With snow falling at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour, the agency advised people to avoid all non-essential travel. Illinois State Police reported numerous accidents on expressways, snarling traffic.
As the band continued to shift, the weather service warned of a possible pivot toward downtown Chicago.
As with any lake effect event, snow totals varied widely, with observers reporting upward of 7 inches in Wilmette and Downers Grove seeing less than an inch.
The snow is expected to taper off later in the day on Friday, with a warmup on the way for Monday.
[8:25 AM 1/28] Intense lake effect snow band will continue to significantly impact parts of the Eisenhower, Kennedy, and Edens Expressways near the lake with very intense snowfall rates. Consider postponing non-essential travel! This band may pivot towards downtown this AM. pic.twitter.com/Ib4yYI9lnp
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) January 28, 2022
We're getting reports of more then 2" in one hour under the snow band in Cook county with a COOP observer 3 miles SW of Midway already up to 5" since about 1:30 this morning. Postpone travel if you can if you live in central Cook county!
— NWS Chicago (@NWSChicago) January 28, 2022
Northeastern counties, and especially Cook, are a mess this morning thanks to heavy lake effect snow. Delay or postpone your travels if you are able to.
Conditions as of 6:55 am via https://t.co/3vgPqL82JK. https://t.co/1P6NtS2ez3 pic.twitter.com/rLR1DUzfhG
— IDOT_Illinois (@IDOT_Illinois) January 28, 2022
ISP D-Chicago Troopers are handling numerous crashes on the Dan Ryan Expressway this morning due to icy road conditions. Please use caution while driving, slow down, and move over for emergency vehicles! #Slowdown #moveover
— ISPDistrictChicago (@ChicagoIsp) January 28, 2022
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]