The weather service has issued a winter weather advisory ahead of up to five inches of snow possible in Lake and McHenry counties Tuesday evening into Wednesday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter weather advisory early Tuesday morning for Lake, McHenry and Boone counties.
The advisory said snow accumulations between two and five inches are possible.
The highest snowfall will be near the Illinois-Wisconsin state line.
The advisory said the snow is expected to begin around 8 p.m. Tuesday and end around 6 a.m. Wednesday.
The clipper system’s accumulating snow will cause untreated roads to become snow-covered and slick, the NWS said.
Motorists should be prepared for hazardous travel due to snow-covered roads and reduced visibility.
The slippery conditions may also impact part of the Wednesday morning commute, the advisory said.
The NWS said some uncertainty remains on the exact position of the band and whether snow may develop farther south for a short period early Wednesday morning.
A strong cold front will move across the area on Wednesday evening, bringing snow showers and gusty winds up to 35 mph, which may cause blowing and drifting snow.
“Be prepared for possible impacts to travel, including the Wednesday evening commute,” the NWS said.
A second arctic cold front will move across the area late Thursday with dangerous cold conditions expected Thursday night into the upcoming weekend.