Update 12:15 p.m. Tuesday:

The National Weather Service has issued a "hazardous weather outlook" for north central Illinois beginning today.

A period of late snow may be expected late this morning into the afternoon. Some minor slushy snow accumulation is possible.

Starting Wednesday evening to Thursday evening a strong storm system is forecasted to be in the area. It will begin with rain from Wednesday evening through sunrise Thursday, but is then expected to turn to snow with strong winds. Blizzard conditions may be possible.

Original story:

It's time to get those shovels ready.

Chicago's snow-less streak is expected to end Thursday with a storm that could drop six to 12 inches of snow on the Midwest, according to the Chicago Tribune.

It's unclear at this point which areas will see the most snow but "current models suggest the heaviest snowfall will land to the west of Chicago, from northern Missouri through eastern Iowa and up into Wisconsin," according to the Tribune. 

The National Weather Service, in a special weather statement, reported that the snow may be preceeded by rain across the area, but will turn completely to snow by Thursday afternoon.

The snow has been a long-time coming this winter season. On Sunday, Chicago surpassed the record for latest first measurable snowfall, according to the National Weather Service. The old record was set on Dec. 16, 1965. 

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More Snow News:

• Are You Ready for Winter? Enter the IEMA Winter Preparedness Sweepstakes
  
• Village Board Approves 3-Year Snowplow Contract for Cul-De-Sacs

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