Illinois Could See Nasty Combination of Heavy Snow and Ice Sunday

This is not an official forecast, but you should start seeing warnings and advisories soon. Multiple computer models agree that Illinois could see a nasty combination of heavy snow and ice beginning Sunday and continuing into Monday.

Let's be clear that there are still many unknowns about the winter system that looks all but certain to impact the Midwest beginning this weekend. However, I've seen a brand new update that shows two of the most significant weather models are in agreement that Illinois is likely to be in the path of what could be a monster storm.

Meteorologist Travis Roberts just shared what the GFS and the European computer models are showing for Illinois this weekend. Here's the European model for Illinois for Sunday afternoon. The light blue bands are snow. The darker blue are heavy snow and the light and darker pink are freezing rain and ice.

Here's the European model showing Illinois still experiencing snow on Monday morning, too.

Now, compare that to what the GFS computer model shows for Illinois for Sunday afternoon.

The model shows a slightly less dramatic Monday compared to the European model, but it's still significant.

Travis does a great job of explaining what these models show and what Illinois can expect, but I'll do what he did and add a huge dose of caution. Where this storm goes will depend on the position of the low pressure system. Right now, I'm seeing discussions among meteorologists that are expecting 1 of 3 possible paths. The models above are only 1 of those 3 options which would produce the most snow. It could go further north which would produce less snow and more rain. It could go further south. We won't know for sure for a day or two, but you need to be aware of what's possible and prepare now.

The National Weather Service is advising that Illinois prepare for the worst and hope for the best. That's my advice also. I despise snow and am hopeful that the scenario with the least amount of that stuff plays out, but I'm also preparing like it's not gonna go the way I want.