ILLINOIS — Several Illinois school districts could be forced to cancel classes for multiple days next week as a series of winter storms moves through the Midwest.
According to the FOX Forecast Center, three separate storm systems are expected to impact 25 states, including Illinois, beginning this weekend and continuing into the middle of next week.
While none of the systems are expected to rival the historic blizzard that recently hit the East Coast, forecasters warn that snow and ice could still create hazardous travel conditions across the state.
The first storm is expected to move quickly across the northern tier of the country on Saturday, bringing light snowfall to parts of Illinois. Accumulations are generally forecast to remain under 3 inches, but even minor snowfall could create slick roads for Monday morning commutes in some areas.
A second, more concerning system is expected to develop Sunday night and continue into Monday.
Current projections show Illinois — particularly areas around Chicago and along Interstate 70 — could see between 1 and 5 inches of snow, depending on how the storm track develops. Forecasters caution that the exact placement of the snow-rain line remains uncertain, which means some districts could face a mix of freezing rain and ice instead of snow.
Ice accumulation is a particular concern because it can make roads treacherous and create dangerous conditions for school buses. Even relatively small amounts of freezing rain can prompt districts to cancel in-person classes out of caution.
A third storm is forecast to arrive Tuesday into Wednesday. While much of this system may bring rain, colder air trapped near the surface could allow for additional icing or snow in parts of northern Illinois.
With three systems expected in rapid succession, school officials across the state are closely monitoring forecasts. Consecutive days of snow and ice could force multiple-day closures, particularly in districts that experience icing or overnight refreezing on untreated roads.
Forecasters emphasize that snowfall totals and ice impacts could shift as the storms approach, but Illinois families should prepare for potential schedule changes and possible school cancellations next week.
