Warmer temperatures will continue to remain in place today thanks to a south breeze that will be gusty at times. This morning dry conditions can be expected with increasing chances for rain after the noon hour. Areas of light to moderate rain will continue into the early evening before tapering off around 10pm. Highs this afternoon will reach the upper 40s.
We continue to monitor the potential for a significant winter storm to impact parts of the region later this weekend. A developing area of low pressure in Kansas is expected to track northeast into parts of Illinois and Indiana by Monday morning. Enough cold air will be in place for accumulating snow by Sunday afternoon and evening. Right now the latest model guidance is suggesting a slight southern shift for the heaviest axis of snow, running roughly along and south of I-80 where more than four inches appears likely. Elsewhere at least a couple inches of accumulation appears possible. More exact forecast amounts will be known by Friday evening as confidence continues to grow. Snowfall amounts will also depend on where the rain/snow line ends up. The current guidance suggests many areas begin with rain Sunday afternoon changing to all snow by Sunday evening with the rain/snow mix line hanging up just to the south of I-80.
Winds are expected to increase by Sunday evening causing significant blowing and drifting, especially in open areas. If you plan to travel anywhere in the immediate region Sunday afternoon and evening, along with much of Monday morning, pay attention to later forecasts and consider making alternative plans. Travel is expected to be significantly impacted during this time.
-Andrew
