Road crews in northern Illinois and northwest Indiana are bracing for the first significant snowfall of the season. Area from Chicago to Rockford could see two inches or a little more.

LaPorte and St. Joseph counties, in Indiana, will be under a winter storm watch beginning Friday night and lasting through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service.

Heavy and blowing snow is possible, the NWS said, with wind gusts of 20 to 35 mph. Drivers should plan for difficult travel conditions, the weather service said. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 8 inches are possible, with localized heavier amounts expected.

A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for significant snow, sleet or ice accumulations that may impact travel.

Snow is expected to fall mainly before noon Saturday in Lake and Porter counties, while LaPorte County could see a transition to lake-effect snow flurries Saturday afternoon and evening.

Snow plow drivers are reminding motorists to slow down, especially during the first snowfall of the season.

94.1 WGFA