The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for most of northern and central Illinois. For LaSalle County, it’s from 9am Thursday to 6am Saturday. Counties close to the Mississippi River have a winter storm warning. For Bureau County, it’s from midnight tonight to 6am Saturday. Both warn of difficult driving conditions due to falling and blowing snow. In the areas where the warning is in effect, things are expected to be much worse.
Ice jams could form on the Fox River. Large chunks of ice that build up against bridges and dams could block water flow. That causes flooding upstream from the dam. Ice jams can form quickly and also wash away quickly. People living or working along the river should be ready to get out.
Strong winds during the snow storm could bring down trees and power lines. People are advised to be ready for power outages. Anyone traveling should be prepared to spend a long time in the car in case it gets stuck.