ROCKFORD — A Winter Storm Warning will be in effect beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday night as 7-12 inches of snow is expected to fall in northern Illinois.

New forecast models from the National Weather Service have upped the projected snowfall levels for the Rockford region, with some localized areas likely to receive more than 1 foot of snow.

Flurries will begin during the day while heavy snow will begin to blanket most of the state north of I-80 in the evening, creating hazardous travel conditions from Chicago to the Quad Cities, and from the Wisconsin border to Ottawa. Whiteout conditions are possible.

More than 8 inches is forecasted to fall overnight Thursday, leading into the Friday morning commute. Travelers are urged to alter or postpone plans. If you have to drive, leave early and use caution on the roadways. Drivers in rural areas should ensure they have safety supplies in their car.

Snow will continue through Friday, with the warning currently set to expire at 9 p.m. Another 1-3 inches of snow is expected on Saturday.

For your complete up-to-date forecast, click here. R.

This story has been updated.