Storm to bring some of Chicago’s highest snow totals of season this week

Key Takeaways:

• Chicago anticipates 4 to 8 inches of snow by week’s end.
• Snow to begin in Chicago on Wednesday around 9 a.m., lasting over 12 hours.
• Evening commutes in Chicago likely to be impacted on Wednesday.
• Two major winter storms will bring high snow totals to several U.S. cities.
• Heavy rain may cause flash flooding in Southern states.

Chicago Prepares for Significant Snowfall

Chicago is gearing up for what could be its biggest snowfall of the winter season. ABC7 meteorologists report that the city could see between 4 to 8 inches of snow by the end of the week. Snow is expected to begin as early as 9 a.m. on Wednesday and may last for over 12 hours.

Timing and Commuter Impacts

While Wednesday’s morning commute is likely to proceed without major issues, residents should brace for a challenging evening commute. “Wednesday’s morning commute will likely not be impacted, but the evening commute will,” noted ABC7 meteorologist Tracy Butler. The prolonged snowfall may create hazardous driving conditions and delays throughout the city.

First Storm Hits the Eastern U.S.

The snowfall in Chicago is part of a larger weather system affecting much of the United States. Two major winter storms are bearing down on the country this week, expected to bring some of the highest snow totals of the season to cities including Chicago and Washington, D.C. The first storm, spanning from Colorado to Delaware, will hit Tuesday morning through Wednesday morning.

By 7 a.m. ET Tuesday, heavy rain is expected from Dallas to Nashville, while snow will be falling from Louisville to Richmond. Snow is set to arrive in Washington, D.C., by noon on Tuesday and may last for over 12 hours. Some light snow may even reach as far north as Philadelphia.

Flooding Risks in the South

Meteorologists are also warning of heavy rain in the Southern states, which may cause flash flooding. Areas from Dallas to Nashville are particularly at risk. Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert to weather warnings and prepare for potential flooding.

Second Storm Targets the Midwest and East Coast

As the first storm exits the East Coast, a second storm will begin impacting the Midwest. In New York City and Boston, snow is forecasted to start Wednesday night and then change to rain overnight. This shift may lead to slippery conditions and reduced visibility, affecting both road and air travel.

Combined Impact and Preparedness

Both storms combined are expected to result in hefty snow totals in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, with potentially flooding rain across a wide swath of the South. “Both storms combined will result in hefty snow totals… and potentially flooding rain for a wide swath of the South,” reports indicate. Residents across the affected areas are encouraged to monitor weather updates and make necessary preparations.

Conclusion

The approaching winter storms underline the importance of staying informed and prepared during severe weather events. With significant snowfall, heavy rains, and potential flooding on the horizon, communities from Chicago to the Southern states are advised to exercise caution and prioritize safety in the coming days.