6+ inches of snow possible Wednesday for northern Illinois as winter storm watch issued for region

Parts of northern Illinois could see 6 or more inches of snow Wednesday, the National Weather Service advised Monday as it issued a winter storm watch for areas across central, north-central and northeast Illinois, as well as parts of northwest Indiana.

The watch takes effect early Wednesday, Feb. 12, and continues through the evening. Snowfall rates could rise to 1 inch per hour, especially during the Wednesday afternoon and evening commute.

The storm, which could significantly disrupt travel, is expected to affect Carroll, Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, La Salle, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Whiteside and Will counties, among others.

Snow is expected to start accumulating in the morning hours, with the heaviest snow falling during the afternoon and evening. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute, with roads becoming slippery and visibility decreasing.

While exact snowfall totals remain uncertain, the National Weather Service has indicated a greater than 70% chance that more than 4 inches of snow will accumulate across northern Illinois.

In addition to the storm expected Wednesday, a second winter storm is expected to hit the region Friday afternoon through Saturday evening, bringing further snowfall and potential disruptions.

Travelers are advised to monitor weather updates closely as conditions could change rapidly. With both storms potentially bringing heavy snow, the National Weather Service is urging residents to plan ahead and be ready for challenging conditions on the roads.