UPDATE 7:55 a.m.: The forecast this morning has reduced the possible impact from the storm, now calling for 2 to 4 inches of snow. Conditions will still be windy, but the winter storm warning has been change to a winter storm advisory by the National Weather Service.
Rain. Freezing rain. Snow. Sleet. Wind. The storm predicted to hit the area Wednesday night and Thursday could include all the options winter has to offer.
Administrators in Homewood District 153, Flossmoor District 161 and Homewood-Flossmoor High School said schools will be closed Thursday. Students are to transition to e-learning on Thursday, Feb. 17.
The National Weather Service forecast calls for rain before 4 a.m. Thursday followed by a mix of snow, freezing rain and possibly sleet with wind gusts up to 35 mph.
The chance of precipitation is 100% overnight and most of the day Thursday.
While little or no ice accumulation was expected overnight, snow beginning after 10 a.m. could result in 3 to 5 inches of accumulation, and the wind could get stronger, with gusts up to 40 mph.
After reaching a balmy 50 degrees Wednesday, temperatures are expected to fall to about 22 degrees by late Thursday afternoon.
Snowfall is expected to end about 9 p.m. Thursday. On Friday, the sun is expected to come out, but it could remain windy with a high temperature of 30 degrees.
Flossmoor officials announced Wednesday evening that village hall staff will work remotely on Thursday because of the storm.
The Flossmoor Police Department lobby will remain open. Residents with questions about snow removal or other storm related issues can call public works at 708-957-4100 or the police department non-emergency line at 708-957-4500.
As of late Wednesday, Homewood Village Manager Napoleon Haney said village hall is set to open Thursday. However, Haney said depending on morning weather conditions, he may decide to close village hall.
Because the snow could be preceded by heavy rains, the Cook County Department of Transportation issued a reminder to motorists to avoid flooded roadways.
Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- A foot of water will cause many vehicles to float.
- Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUVs and pick-ups.
- Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road as the depth of water is not always obvious. The roadbed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
- Do not drive around a barricade. They are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
- Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If flood waters rise around your vehicle, abandon it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.