The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police are warning residents that a winter storm Saturday could dump a foot of snow or more across the northern half of the state, creating major disruptions for travelers returning home from Thanksgiving.
Officials urge the public to prepare for conditions that will deteriorate Friday night into Saturday morning, bringing heavy snow, reduced visibility and slick roads that will extend travel times significantly.
“While we have prepared and are ready to devote all resources to this winter weather event, this weekend’s storm will hit when millions of people are returning home from the holiday,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “Please make a plan to keep you and your loved ones safe, including adjusting travel so you are not on the roads when conditions are at their worst.”
The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings for most of central and northern Illinois, effective tonight through Saturday. Northwestern Illinois, including the Quad Cities and Rockford, could receive up to 15 inches of heavy, wet snow. The Macomb, Peoria and LaSalle-Peru areas could see up to 12 inches.
The Chicago region should expect 7 to 10 inches, with higher totals in northern suburbs. Quincy, Springfield, Champaign-Urbana and Effingham could receive 3 to 8 inches. The Metro East and Southern Illinois will see a trace to 2 inches with a rain-and-snow mix.
“The forecasted winter weather could create hazardous driving conditions,” said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. “Think about whether driving is really necessary. Depending on snow amounts and road conditions, if your vehicle becomes disabled, troopers can help you get to a safe place, but your vehicle will have to wait. Is it worth it?”
IDOT crews have been pretreating roads and loading plows with salt and other materials. Crews will deploy later today, with cleanup efforts continuing into Sunday.
Statewide, IDOT has nearly 1,900 trucks and equipment available to spread salt, plow snow and respond to weather emergencies across more than 45,000 lane miles. Drivers should not crowd plows, should give crews plenty of room to work and should not attempt to pass too closely. Conditions ahead of plows will be worse than behind them.
Drivers should expect slick roadways and exercise extra caution. Officials recommend driving according to conditions at all times: reduce speed, increase braking distances and allow more space between vehicles. Drive especially slowly when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges, shaded areas and other locations prone to icing.
Current winter road conditions are available 24/7 at GettingAroundIllinois.com. IDOT also maintains updates on Facebook and X.
Travel tips for those who must drive:
• Check the forecast before leaving and ensure someone knows your route and schedule.
• Fill your gas tank or fully charge your vehicle and pack winter essentials: cellphone charger, traction materials, warm clothes, blankets, food, bottled water, first-aid kit, washer fluid and ice scraper.
• Give emergency vehicles distance. The Move Over law requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching any stopped vehicle.
• Always wear a seat belt.
• Put away mobile devices while driving.
• If you crash, remain inside your vehicle. Exiting during bad weather with reduced visibility can be fatal.