First Winter of The Year
The first winter storm of 2024 has finally arrived starting today. Chicago is starting the year off with a windy and cold winter. It is expected to bring a lot of rounds of snowfall starting tonight. The storm warning is expected to go in effect at around eight pm tonight. The winter warning that will be from 8 p.m. Monday to Tuesday at midnight will affect the following counties:
- Winnebago,
- Boone,
- McHenry,
- Lake,
- Ogle,
- Lee,
- DeKalb,
- Kane,
- And LaSalle.
The winter warning taking effect on Monday starting at 8 p.m. to Tuesday 12 p.m. will affect the following counties:
- Cook,
- DuPage,
- Grundy,
- Kankakee,
- Kendall,
- Livingston,
- And Will.
What to Expect
The first round of snow is expected to begin late Monday night to Tuesday morning. The second round will begin Tuesday afternoon and to midnight. Because of the above freezing temperatures, meteorologist Tracy Butler states that the second wave of snow will be cutoff shortly due to rain.
The first storm is estimated to have four inches of snow. However, due to the rain and temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, it is very likely that the ground will be slippery. It is recommended to add salt on the sidewalk prior to the storm.
The snow storm warning is expected to cease at around Wednesday afternoon. Some areas will experience colder temperatures as well as heavier snow than others. However, there are speculations of a bigger storm incoming by Friday night of this week.
How to Prepare
It is safe to say that this week will be cold and will feel colder because of the wind it will bring. In order to stay safe during these cold times it is important to wear long sleeve shirts, thick pants, sweater, jacket, gloves, and a winter hat.
Also, make sure that the heater is properly working and try to stay indoors as long as possible. Careful walking on the street as it is likely to freeze and become dangerously slippery. It is recommended to place car covers to make it easier to keep the car clean of snow during this week. Remember to stay safe and warm during this cold winter.
Written by Erika Cano
Sources:
ABC 7 Chicago: Chicago weather: Winter Storm Warning in effect for several suburban counties Monday night
Book Club Chicago: Winter weather advisory issued for much of Chicago area ahead of first big snowstorm
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of spablab Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Paul Kehrer Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
