Update: Winter Storm Warning Now in Effect

Update, 12:09 p.m. Thursday: The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning that will be in effect from 3 p.m. today until 3 a.m. Friday. According to the National Weather Service office in Chicago, the heaviest snow in the Chicago area is expected to fall between 5 and 9 p.m. Between 2 and 6 inches of snow could fall.

Check road conditions at Lake County Passage.

It's taken a while for the season's snow to show itself, but it looks like it's coming back with a vengeance. 

The forecast for Grayslake calls for a rain and snow mix throughout the day today and heavy snow by this evening.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for Thursday evening through late Thursday night. A total of two to six inches of snow is likely, with more accumulation in the north and northwest suburbs than in the city.

Rain will likely change to wet snow from west to east in the afternoon and evening, growing heavy at times, the weather service says. Strong winds are also likely to develop.

"Thundersnow" is possible, the weather service says, and winds may reach 30-40 mph by late Thursday afternoon, and up to 60 mph at night.

"The combination of the snow and very strong winds will result in greatly reduced visibilities and possibly near bizzard conditions," the watch says. "Falling temperatures will cause roads to become snow covered and travel treacherous. ... The strong winds may also result in minor damage and sporadic power outages."

What are the Road Conditions in Northern Illinois?