Illinois Winter Storm Watch: Blizzard Conditions Are Possible
Winter Storm and Blizzard Warnings are already in effect in northern Wisconsin and southwest Minnesota, dumping a massive amount of snow. That storm is headed toward the Rockford region, bringing thunderstorms ahead of snow and ice.
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Northern Illinois
According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Watch will be in effect beginning at 7 pm on Sunday, through 7 pm on Monday, for portions of northwest Illinois and southern Wisconsin.
Meteorologists warn of possible blizzard conditions with total snow accumulation between 3 and 7 inches possible in the Rockford region, with heavier snowfall in Wisconsin, where Madison could get between 6 and 11 inches by midday on Monday, according to the Weather Channel.
Dangerous Travel Conditions Possible
Whiteout conditions may develop during this storm, with visibility dropping below a quarter mile at times, making travel dangerous or even life-threatening in exposed areas.
The storm's timing could also impact commuters on Monday (3/16), with a possibility of snow affecting both the morning and evening commutes across northern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin.
Falling Temperatures Could Worsen Roads
In addition to the heavy snow and wind, temperatures are expected to fall quickly on Sunday night and stay cold into Monday, creating icy and slick road conditions.
The National Weather Service is forecasting a high of 56 on Sunday, with thunderstorms between 1 and 4 pm, and all rain after 4. Sunday night rain will turn to snow around 10 pm, with the low expected to be around 19.
Monday's high will only be 22, and brutally cold and blustery on Monday night, with a low of 5. For St. Patrick's Day (Tuesday, 3/17), Rockford's high will only be in the mid-20s.
Spring Is Days Away, But Will It Warm Up
After a brutal way to start the last week of Winter, it will be a bit milder on Wednesday (3/18), with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid 40s.
Thursday, we are expected to hit the lower 50s, and for the first day of Spring on Friday, March 20, the Weather Channel is showing a high of 53.
Looking way too early at the forecast for opening day at Wrigley Field on Thursday, March 26, the Weather Channel's extended forecast is saying it will be mostly cloudy with a 25 percent chance of rain, and a high of 48 in Wrigleyville.