Chicago residents may need to brace themselves for some harsh winter weather as a major snowstorm is predicted to hit the area next week. The city has been relatively lucky so far this winter, with minimal snowfall and above-average temperatures. However, the calm may soon come to an end as forecasters expect a one-two punch of a snowstorm followed by the arrival of frigid Arctic air.

Since December 1st, Chicago has had just over an inch of snow, which is almost 9 inches below the seasonal average. December was particularly mild, with temperatures nearly 9 degrees above normal, and January has maintained a roughly 5-degree higher-than-average temperature. However, there are signs that this mild winter pattern will change in the coming days.

Computer models indicate a major winter storm will sweep through the Midwest, with the exact timing and intensity still uncertain. The storm is expected to bring precipitation into Chicago early next Tuesday, continuing into Wednesday morning. While the exact snowfall amounts are still unknown, forecasters predict at least moderate impacts on the city, including hazardous driving conditions and potential road closures.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Weather Prediction Center has Chicago directly in the crosshairs of the storm, with the heaviest precipitation expected to be concentrated over the area. However, factors such as a lack of Arctic air and the influence of Lake Michigan may affect the overall snow totals. Nonetheless, several inches of snow are still possible in the storm's path.

One of the biggest uncertainties at this point is the track of the storm. While parts of the Midwest are expected to receive primarily snow, other areas might experience a mix of rain and snow. Northern Illinois, including the Chicago region, could be near the rain-snow line. As of now, the storm is still evolving in the Gulf of Alaska, over 4000 miles away, leaving room for potential changes in its trajectory.

The forthcoming storm is projected to bring heavy, wet snow and strong winds, marking the first punch of Old Man Winter. Additionally, some models suggest a colder pattern developing in the middle of this month, potentially leading to the arrival of Arctic air around the end of next week. The NOAA's Climate Prediction Center has indicated the possibility of significant cold weather, supported by longer-range temperature outlooks.

According to the Climate Prediction Center, northern Illinois and Indiana are expected to have near-normal temperatures for the 6-10 day period, spanning from next Wednesday through the following Sunday. However, a broader outlook for the 8-14 day period shows a significant portion of the country, including Chicago, likely to experience below-average temperatures during that time frame.

With the arrival of this impending winter storm and the potential for a subsequent Arctic blast, Chicagoans are being cautioned not to let their guard down. Despite the relatively mild winter experienced thus far, the city and its residents are only days away from facing a double dose of truly wintry weather.