***Historic Lake Effect Snow Event!***
From now until 11/11/25, we are expecting a significant lake effect snow event. The most intense snowfall will begin after 5 PM in Northwest Indiana and will shift west toward Northeast Illinois, particularly in Cook County, around 9-11 PM. This weather event will continue into Monday morning, severely impacting traffic and potentially bringing it to a standstill.
If you have experienced lake effect snow events in Buffalo, NY, you know how severe they can be. Please stay home if possible, as driving in this lake effect snow band later tonight will be extremely challenging and dangerous. There is a high likelihood of serious accidents and pile-ups from tonight into Monday.
The official snowfall forecast indicates blizzard conditions and whiteouts near the lake, with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph and waves reaching over 20 feet along the shoreline. Wind gusts of 35-50 mph will extend inland, affecting areas along the I-94 corridor as well.
Snowfall totals of 1-4 feet are expected in areas close to the lake or within 20 miles inland, with snowfall rates reaching 3-5 inches per hour at the peak of the storm. These conditions will lead to impossible travel situations, with stranded motorists on the roadways, creating life-threatening scenarios.
Please exercise caution and prioritize your safety.