DeKalb can expect temperatures in the 30s and safer driving conditions by afternoon today, said NIU staff meteorologist Gilbert Sebenste.

“The snowfall should end by the afternoon, and the salt will work very quickly to eliminate the ice on the roads,” Sebenste said.

Thursday, the DeKalb area was issued a snow advisory and the Chicago area had a winter storm warning. Sebenste predicted 3 to 6 inches of snow in DeKalb and 6 to 10 inches in Chicago.

“A snow advisory means up to 6 inches of snow could fall, while a winter storm warning means over 6 inches could fall,” he said.

Despite Chicago’s more severe warning, Sebenste said the danger of driving in Chicago is only somewhat higher than in DeKalb.

“The roads will be slick and hazardous up until noon in both areas,” he said.

According to Sebenste, it could be warm enough for rain by the beginning of next week, but temperatures should drop by the week’s latter half, and more snow is predicted.