Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Iowa Prepare for Two Alberta Clippers Bringing 2–10+ Inches of Snow December 12–15
ILLINOIS — A significant early-season winter pattern is setting up across the Midwest as two Alberta clipper systems are forecast to move through between December 12 and December 15, potentially delivering 2 to 10+ inches of snow across large portions of Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, and Iowa. Forecast confidence is increasing, but meteorologists caution that totals and timing may shift as new model data arrives.
Two Fast-Moving Clippers Could Produce Widespread Accumulating Snow
Alberta clippers typically bring light, fast bursts of snow, but when two systems occur in quick succession, totals can stack up quickly.
Based on current ECMWF model output, the heaviest stripe of snow appears likely across:
- Northern and central Illinois
- Eastern Iowa
- Northern Indiana
- Northern Missouri
Some areas within this band could see 8–12 inches or more, especially where both clippers track along a similar path.
Illinois and Indiana in Line for the Highest Totals
Early projections show north-central and northeast Illinois — including communities just west of the Chicago metro — potentially receiving 7 to 11 inches.
Northern Indiana may also experience 6 to 10+ inches, depending on the intensity of the second clipper.
These totals may fluctuate slightly as forecasters refine each system’s track.
Iowa and Missouri Will Also See Significant Snowfall
Eastern Iowa could see 6 to 10 inches, with locally higher totals in regions impacted by both snow bands.
Northern Missouri is projected to receive 2 to 6 inches, with heavier pockets farther north along the Iowa border.
Travel Impacts Expected Across Multiple States
With back-to-back clipper systems and temperatures cold enough for efficient accumulation, residents should prepare for:
- Slick and snow-covered roads
- Reduced visibility during heavier bursts
- Slower travel on interstates including I-80, I-55, I-70, I-74, and I-90
- Potential school and event disruptions depending on timing
Forecasters emphasize that the exact snow gradient may be sharp, meaning small shifts could dramatically change totals for specific towns.
Forecast Still Developing — More Updates Coming
Snowfall projections will continue to be refined as new data is released between now and Friday. NapervilleLocal.com will provide ongoing updates as Illinois and surrounding states brace for a busy stretch of winter weather leading into mid-December.
If you’d like, I can also create a snow-total comparison chart, city-by-city breakdown, or a Naperville-specific snowfall outlook.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.