Update, 6:30 PM: The Kane County Sheriff warns roads west of 47 are impassable. DeKalb County Highway snowplows have been taken off the roads until 3:00 am because of the dangerous conditions. The Huskie Bus system is discontinuing service tonight at 7:00 because of treacherous roadways.
Winds are expected to continue to cause drifting over roads overnight. People are advised to only venture out if it's an emergency.
The Winter Storm Warning for most of northern Illinois has been canceled and replaced with something far more ominous: a Blizzard Warning is in effect until midnight tonight. We're expecting 12 to 16 inches of snow, with 18 inches possible in some areas.
Falling snow and very strong winds are making travel "extremely dangerous," according to the National Weather Service. If you must travel, take a winter survival kit with you, and if stranded, stay with your vehicle until someone comes to your aid.
Strong winds and snow-covered power lines could also lead to power outages.
As of noon, seven to nine inches of snow have been reported throughout northern Illinois. Highest amounts include 11.5 inches in the LaSalle County portion of Somonauk and 10.3 inches in Sugar Grove in Kane County.
Illinois State Police are advising drivers who get into minor accidents during this snow emergency to exchange information and report it to the police within ten days.
