CHICAGO (AP) -- The National Weather Service says a winter storm could bring up to 10 inches of snow to northern Illinois.

The weather service has issued a winter storm warning that starts at 3 a.m. Tuesday and lasts throughout the day. Forecasters say snow is expected to be heavy from late Tuesday morning through early Tuesday evening with 1 to 1 1/2 inches falling an hour. Weather service officials say snow removal could be difficult and travel extremely dangerous. Winds are forecast to gust at between 25 and 30 mph.

The storm also is expected in central Illinois, where snow, rain and sleet are expected. Accumulations are forecast at between 3 and 5 inches along and north of Interstate 74.

Mike Bardou of the NWS in Romeoville says the immediate WGFA-listening area from Pontiac over to Watseka and Renssaler, IN is likely to see 2-4 inches of new snow and sleet accumulation.

Forecasters say up to 8 inches of snow could accumulate in Chicago.

NWS, 94.1 FM, WGFA