Illinois residents face challenging travel conditions this Monday following a powerful winter storm that dumped up to 14 inches of snow across the state over the weekend. As the work week begins, transportation officials are working to clear roadways while urging drivers to exercise caution.
Storm Impact and Snowfall Totals
The legendary winter system swept across Illinois from Saturday evening through Sunday night, bringing heavy snowfall combined with winds gusting up to 35 mph. This created near-blizzard conditions with significant drifting that complicated cleanup efforts.
According to National Weather Service measurements, snowfall totals varied considerably across the state:
- Rockford: 12.3 inches
- Chicago (O'Hare): 8.7 inches
- Quad Cities: 13.4 inches
- Peoria: 11.2 inches
- Bloomington: 10.1 inches
- Springfield: 9.8 inches
- Champaign: 7.5 inches
- Carbondale: 6.2 inches (mixed with sleet and freezing rain)
These substantial accumulations have placed enormous demand on snow removal resources, with crews operating continuously since the first flakes fell.
Statewide Road Conditions Monday Morning
The Illinois Department of Transportation's interactive road conditions map reveals that most roads throughout Illinois remain at least partially covered with snow or ice. The situation varies dramatically by region, with southern areas experiencing the most severe conditions.
In northern Illinois, major highways like Interstates 90, 94, and 294 are partially to mostly clear, though secondary roads and residential streets remain snow-packed. Central Illinois shows a mix of conditions, with Interstate 55 in relatively good shape but many state routes still requiring attention.
The southern half of the state presents the greatest concern. Most roads south of Interstate 70 are mostly covered with ice and snow, while southeastern Illinois roads remain fully covered in many areas. The combination of snow, sleet, and freezing rain created a dense ice layer that proves more difficult to clear than powdery snow.
Critical Travel Advisories
Transportation officials have identified specific corridors requiring extreme caution. Drivers traveling south of Livingston County and east of Springfield should expect hazardous conditions and consider delaying travel.
Particularly concerning routes include:
- Interstate 57 south of Champaign: mostly covered
- Interstate 70 east of Effingham: partially to mostly covered
- Interstate 24 in southern Illinois: fully covered in sections
- U.S. Route 45 south of Mattoon: snow-packed and icy
These areas received less intensive plowing due to lower traffic volumes and resource allocation priorities focused on major corridors.
Essential Travel Safety Tips
For those who must travel today, officials strongly recommend these precautions:
1. Allow extra time for all journeys, reducing speed expectations by 50% or more
2. Increase following distance to 8-10 seconds to allow for extended braking on ice
3. Completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice, including the roof to prevent hazards for others
4. Pack an emergency kit containing blankets, water, snacks, flashlight, and phone charger
5. Verify road conditions immediately before departure using official sources
6. Postpone non-essential travel until conditions improve, particularly in southern regions
Commercial drivers and those in high-profile vehicles should remain especially vigilant, as wind gusts continue to cause drifting even after precipitation has ended.
Official Travel Resources
The most reliable source for current conditions is gettingaroundillinois.com, IDOT's comprehensive travel information portal. This mobile-friendly platform provides:
- Real-time winter road conditions map with color-coded status indicators
- Live traffic cameras showing current conditions at major intersections
- Updated travel time estimates between major cities
- Construction information that may compound winter travel challenges
Travelers can also access automated updates by calling 1-800-452-IDOT or following IDOT's social media channels for immediate alerts.
Recovery Timeline and Forecast
Municipal and state crews continue emergency operations. Chicago deployed over 300 snow plows on arterial streets, with residential clearing ongoing throughout Monday. Suburban communities follow similar protocols, prioritizing school bus routes and emergency access roads.
Most major highways should achieve "clear" status by Monday evening, though secondary roads may require until Tuesday or Wednesday for full clearance. Temperatures will remain below freezing through Tuesday, limiting natural melting, but no additional precipitation is expected for 48 hours.
By Wednesday, temperatures may climb into the upper 30s, accelerating melting on treated surfaces. However, overnight refreezing will likely create challenging morning conditions for several days.
Community Impact and Adjustments
Numerous school districts have announced closures or remote learning days, with some already canceling Tuesday classes. Many businesses have implemented flexible schedules or remote work options. Public transit systems including CTA and Metra operate on modified schedules with expected delays.
Final Recommendations
While the storm has passed, Illinois roads remain in recovery mode. Patience and caution are essential. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly with temperature changes or traffic patterns. Continue monitoring official sources throughout the day, and remember that your safety and that of emergency responders depends on making smart travel decisions.
For the most current information, visit gettingaroundillinois.com before any travel.