Icy conditions could linger on Chicago area untreated roads during the morning commute Thursday, following an ice storm that the National Weather Service predicted could cause hazardous travel conditions beginning Wednesday evening.
Weather officials issued a winter weather advisory until 6 a.m. Thursday, warning of icy conditions and slick roads. Overnight, a wintry mix of freezing rain, snow and sleet were expected to create dangerous travel conditions. Commuters are advised to take precautions and allow extra travel time.
The heaviest precipitation was expected Wednesday night, beginning to taper off overnight.
Chicago’s Department of Streets and Sanitation deployed salt spreaders across the city. However, weather officials still cautioned drivers to watch for icy roads.
Icy conditions Wednesday night are forecast to lead to above-freezing temperatures Thursday, weather officials said. Despite blustery winds forecast Thursday, conditions would remain mainly dry with temps hovering in the upper 30s and low 40s for most of the day.
Temperatures are expected to cool to the mid-teens Thursday night and rise to the low to mid 30s during the daytime Friday.
However, there is a chance of another wintry mix of icy rain starting Friday night through Saturday, weather officials said.