A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Northwest Indiana and the northern suburbs while much of the Chicago area has been downgraded to a Winter Weather Advisory.

With the winter season upon us, winter weather warnings are bound to arise. The primary goal of a weather event warning is to help keep residents safe during a winter storm. The National Weather Service (NWS) has created a set list of criteria for when they issue a Winter Storm Warning.

According to the National Weather Service, Mono County, where the ski area bumps up against the Eastern Sierra, is still in the bull’s eye of the winter storm and, as of 1 p.m. Thursday was getting precipitation. But the trough carrying the low pressure has shifted south, which means the snow started falling later than expected.

Winter storms bring a multitude of risks to your home and physical health and preparation for them should be taken just as seriously as other extreme weather events like hurricanes or tornadoes.

A reinforcing shot of Arctic air will accompany a fast-moving clipper system this weekend, spreading a wintry mix, bursts of heavy lake-effect snow, and gusty winds that could reach to 70 mph across parts of the region.

What to Know Rain is in the forecast for the next few days, including two intense waves from Thursday evening into Friday and Friday evening into Saturday. Evacuation warnings are in effect for communities near some burn scars,