WEATHER UPDATE: At least 18 inches of snow expected, Blizzard Warning issued

* Blizzard Warning in effect until 3 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 2.

By Jim Hagerty
Staff Writer

A major winter storm, that is causing major snowfall in more than 30 states, is headed toward northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin.

The first leg of the storm, which began Monday, Jan. 31, is relatively mild and could bring up to five inches of snow by Tuesday evening.

A second system, expected Tuesday night, could blanket the area with at least 18 inches by Thursday morning, Feb. 3.

“It’s hard to pinpoint right now,” National Weather Service Meteorologist Charles Mott said Monday morning. “But, in Rockford, you should expect 18 inches–possibly more.”

Area residents should also embrace for high gusts that could bring heavy drifting and wind chills as low as 9 to 10 degrees below zero.

According to radar maps at Accuweather.com, the Rockford area is in the path of a westerly winter storm that has already brought heavy snowfall in Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Dakotas.

The storm could significantly impact as many as 40 states.

As of this report, few school closings have been reported. Officials, however, are instructing parents to monitor weather updates and news outlets for possible closings and delays.

National Weather Service officials are warning drivers to avoid major roadways unless travel is a must.