The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch that is in effect now until late Friday night for portions of east-central and northeast Illinois.
Officials warned blizzard conditions could make travel dangerous, with wind gusts of up to 55 mph. Falling and blowing snow may create whiteout conditions with zero visibility at times, officials said.
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Roads may become ice-covered as temperatures rapidly fall Thursday afternoon.
Bitter cold wind chills are expected to be as low as 25 to 30 below zero Thursday night into Friday. Frostbite on exposed skin can happen in these conditions within 20 minutes, officials warned.
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Isolated river jams also are possible.
Power outages may occur because of wind strengths, officials warn, asking the public to prepare for the dangerous conditions.
In a briefing last week, city officials asked residents to check on the elderly and also homeless people left out in the elements.
Officials also reminded that city warming centers are available for residents. Chicagoans can call 311 if they see people struggling in the elements or to find help for those in need.
The snow is expected to begin Thursday, with road conditions rapidly deteriorating Thursday afternoon. Snow is expected to be heavy going into Friday, when dangerous wind chills are expected to begin. The snow is expected to diminish Saturday but drifting snow and wind chills could remain a factor.
