ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS — High-resolution weather models are trending lower on snowfall totals across northern Illinois Sunday night into Monday afternoon, but dangerous blizzard conditions remain increasingly likely across northwest Illinois as powerful winds sweep through the region.
The latest 00z model runs suggest snowfall accumulations may not be especially impressive for much of northern Illinois. However, the National Weather Service has indicated higher potential amounts in its projections, highlighting ongoing uncertainty in exact totals.
Regardless of snowfall amounts, wind is shaping up to be the defining factor of this storm.
Blizzard Conditions Likely in Northwest Illinois
Areas across northwest Illinois — including Rockford, Freeport and surrounding communities — are expected to experience:
- Wind gusts of 50 to 55 mph
- Moderate to heavy blowing and drifting snow
- Reduced visibility, especially overnight into Monday
Even modest snowfall could become problematic when combined with those wind speeds, leading to hazardous travel conditions…