UPDATE: Central Illinois is bracing for hazardous travel conditions as gusty winds are set to create blowing and drifting snow, impacting the start of the work week. The National Weather Service warns that wind gusts could reach up to 30 miles per hour on Monday morning and into the afternoon, particularly affecting areas south of Interstate 80.
Travelers should prepare for difficult conditions along Interstates 39, 55, and 57, with the worst impacts expected in open areas. Counties such as LaSalle, Grundy, and Kankakee may face significant challenges, alongside parts of Indiana, particularly Jasper and Newton counties.
Roads are likely to be snow-covered and visibility could sharply decline, leading to potential accidents. This follows a weekend of severe weather that already caused multiple crashes, including a tragic incident on Interstate 55 in Springfield where a 14-year-old from Chicago lost their life.
Motorists are urged to stay vigilant and be ready for sudden changes in visibility. Forecasters predict that a warming trend could start as early as Tuesday, with temperatures rising into the upper 30s and low 40s, potentially melting much of the accumulated snow.
Stay updated with the latest developments and weather alerts by downloading the NBC Chicago app for real-time notifications. Weather conditions are rapidly changing, and officials stress the importance of safety on the roads.
