A snowplow truck leaves the Village of Antioch Public Works facility during a winter storm on December 22, 2022. | LMCS File Photo

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for both Lake and McHenry counties and said snowfall in excess of six inches is possible beginning later today into Thursday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the watch Tuesday afternoon.

The watch initially included McHenry, Boone, Ogle and Winnebago counties.

The watch was extended Wednesday morning to include Lake County.

The recent tranquil weather pattern is becoming “more active” as the storm system lifts through the upper Midwest, the NWS said.

Strong gusty winds began to develop Tuesday afternoon.

The storm system will impact the region later Wednesday evening into Thursday with a wintry mix of snow, sleet and rain eventually changing over to snow.

The NWS said heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations in excess of six inches possible.

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Minor ice accumulations are also possible and winds could gust as high as 40 mph.

“Plan on slick, snow covered roads. The hazardous conditions are likely to impact both the morning and evening commutes on Thursday,” the watch said.

The snow is expected to end Thursday evening.

The latest road conditions for Illinois are published online by the Illinois Department of Transportation at www.gettingaroundillinois.com.