Major Winter Storm to Disrupt Holiday Travel Across Midwest With Over 10 Inches of Snow Expected Saturday

MIDWEST UNITED STATES — A powerful winter storm is set to cause major travel disruptions across the Midwest this weekend, with forecasters warning of over 10 inches of snow in several states, including Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The system is expected to hit hardest on Saturday afternoon, creating dangerous whiteout conditions and widespread travel cancellations just as post-holiday travelers prepare to head home.

Meteorologists are urging residents to avoid travel if possible, as hazardous conditions are expected to persist well into Sunday morning.

10+ Inches of Snow Forecast for Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin

According to updated projections, the heaviest snow will fall in a corridor stretching from Des Moines, Iowa, through Cedar Rapids and into northern Illinois, including Chicago and Rockford, before extending northeast toward Madison, Wisconsin, and Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The storm’s core zone—marked in red on forecast models—indicates the highest travel risk, with totals exceeding 10 inches of snow and snowfall rates of 1–2 inches per hour during peak intensity. The combination of heavy snow and gusty winds will likely create blowing and drifting snow, making travel nearly impossible at times.

Severe Travel Impacts Expected Saturday Afternoon

Weather experts warn that Saturday afternoon and evening will see the most significant travel disruptions, with the National Weather Service advising against unnecessary trips. Roads across the Midwest are expected to deteriorate rapidly, particularly along Interstate 35, Interstate 80, and Interstate 90, where whiteout conditions could occur.

Airports in Chicago, Milwaukee, and Des Moines are also bracing for flight delays and cancellations, with airlines encouraging travelers to check flight statuses frequently and consider rebooking if possible.

“Anyone planning to travel tomorrow should reconsider,” forecasters said. “Visibility will drop quickly, and road conditions will worsen faster than plow crews can keep up.”

Regions Facing the Greatest Impact

• Des Moines, IA: Expected totals of 10–14 inches with dangerous winds and near-zero visibility.
• Cedar Rapids, IA: Heavy snow expected through Saturday night, with significant road closures possible.
• Chicago, IL: 8–12 inches possible, along with strong winds causing drifting and poor visibility.
• Madison, WI: Around 10 inches of accumulation expected, making highways treacherous.
• Grand Rapids, MI: Snow totals between 8 and 10 inches, with lake-effect enhancement possible into Sunday.

Safety Officials Urge Residents to Stay Put

Authorities across the region are urging residents to stay home, avoid unnecessary driving, and prepare for potential power outages caused by the heavy, wet snow. Emergency management agencies have advised keeping flashlights, blankets, and fully charged devices on hand in case of prolonged power interruptions.

“Give road crews time to clear main routes before heading out,” officials said. “If you must travel, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and ensure your gas tank is full.”

Storm Timeline and Conditions

• Saturday Morning: Light snow begins across Iowa and northern Illinois.
• Saturday Afternoon–Evening: Heaviest snow falls, creating whiteout conditions across the heart of the Midwest.
• Sunday Morning: Snow tapers off from west to east, with temperatures dropping sharply behind the front.

Even after the snow stops, strong winds and freezing temperatures will continue to pose hazards. Wind chills could fall into the single digits Sunday morning, and refreezing of melted snow may create slick roadways through early next week.

Residents Urged to Monitor Local Updates

The National Weather Service and local agencies will continue to issue storm warnings and advisories throughout the weekend. Meteorologists are advising residents to stay updated via trusted weather outlets and avoid travel until conditions improve.

Stay tuned to NapervilleLocal.com for the latest weather alerts, snowfall reports, and post-storm recovery updates across the Midwest.