There’s no denying it. Winter is here.
Chicago is bracing for an onslaught of snow, sleet, rain and wind Tuesday and into Wednesday as a severe winter storm moves into the area.
The far north and far west suburbs are the most vulnerable. They’re expected to get between 8-12 inches of snow by Wednesday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
Chicago proper will be spared the heavy stuff – the North Side is expected to get around 2 to 4 inches and the South Side may not see any snow. But no one is immune to the high winds a cold temps that will blow through town in the evening.
The snow is predicted to start slowly, fluttering in during the early hours, which is good news for commuters who won’t have to deal with inclement conditions for Tuesday’s commute. Light snow and rain is expected to continue throughout the day.
But things get ugly at night, as high winds – with up to 35 mph gusts – roll in with rain and sleet.
Freezing temperatures will accompany the winds and likely turn the sleet in to ice by Wednesday morning, and keep it that way.
Temperatures for Wednesday evening are predicted to reach up to 15-below with wind chill.
Check in with NBCChicago for up to the minute weather alerts, traffic alerts, airport delays and school closings related to the coming storm.
