URGENT UPDATE: A significant winter storm has blanketed the Chicago area overnight, creating dangerous road conditions and prompting widespread school closures and delayed starts across the region. As of Monday, January 15, 2024, residents are urged to exercise extreme caution while traveling.
Heavy lake-effect snowfall has resulted in accumulations of over 3 inches in some areas, with rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour reported. Authorities warn that conditions will remain hazardous throughout the morning commute, leading to an AccuWeather Alert issued by ABC7 meteorologists.
Travelers are facing significant disruptions as over 400 flights have been canceled at Chicago’s O’Hare and Midway airports. As of 4 a.m. today, O’Hare reported 231 cancellations with average delays of 24 minutes, while Midway had 130 cancellations and delays averaging 15 minutes.
The City of Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation is actively deploying salt-spreader trucks to mitigate severe winter road conditions. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions when driving.
Winter Storm Warnings are currently in effect for multiple counties, including:
- Starke, Marshall, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Berrien counties: until midnight Tuesday
- Lake and Porter counties (IN): until 6 p.m. Monday
- Lake County (IL): until 9 a.m. Monday
- Cook and Will counties: until noon Monday
- Kankakee County: until noon Monday
- DuPage County: Winter Weather Advisory until noon Monday
- Newton and Jasper counties (IN): until 6 p.m. Monday
With continued snowfall expected, light snow showers may linger into the afternoon. As the storm progresses, officials are monitoring conditions closely to ensure safety for all residents and travelers.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops, and prioritize safety if you must travel. Share this information with others to keep the community informed.
