nowstorm Blankets Aurora and Suburbs, Roads Slick and Sidewalks Buried

TNW News Staff Reports Widespread Travel Hazards, Local Leaders Urge Caution
Aurora, Illinois —

A powerful post-holiday snowstorm dumped up to 11 inches of snow across northern Illinois, blanketing roads in Aurora and surrounding suburbs in thick layers of snow and ice. The system caused widespread disruption across the region — from major flight cancellations to hazardous neighborhood streets and dangerously obscured crosswalks.

Local snowfall totals reached around 7 inches in Aurora by early Saturday afternoon, with higher amounts reported in outlying areas. While plows cleared primary roadways overnight, residential streets, sidewalks, and intersections remain heavily impacted.

“I couldn’t even see the lane lines when I was driving,” one Aurora resident told TNW News, describing the dangerous visibility and road conditions.

🚔 Police and Emergency Response: “Use Extreme Caution”

The Aurora Police Department confirmed multiple weather-related crashes throughout the day and remains under heightened winter response protocol.

“Our crews are out assisting where needed, but we’re asking drivers to avoid non-essential travel. Give plows space to operate and take it slow,” a department spokesperson told TNW News.

The North Aurora Police Department and the Kane County Sheriff’s Office reported several fender benders, spinouts, and roadside assists due to snow-packed lanes and icy intersections.

“Visibility is poor, and some intersections remain untreated. Be alert, and don’t assume side streets are safe just because the main roads look clear,” a Kane County Sheriff’s Office representative said.

♿ Accessibility Concerns Across Aurora

Beyond driving conditions, TNW News received numerous complaints regarding uncleared sidewalks, buried crosswalks, and blocked curb ramps, particularly near schools, transit corridors, and medical facilities.

“Accessibility isn’t optional,” said a local resident and disability advocate. “Sidewalks and ramps must be cleared as aggressively as roads.”

Many downtown corridors and residential neighborhoods remain difficult to navigate for residents using mobility aids, wheelchairs, strollers, or those with limited mobility.

🗣️ Governor’s Office: State Resources on Standby

The Office of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker confirmed that while a statewide emergency declaration has not been issued, the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is fully activated and coordinating with local municipalities, including Aurora and Kane County.

“We are in close contact with city and county emergency managers. If additional resources are needed, they will be deployed immediately,” the Governor’s office said in a statement to TNW News.

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) added that 24/7 monitoring remains in effect, with additional alerts possible as freezing temperatures continue.

📣 What Aurora Residents Should Know

Authorities continue to urge the following safety precautions:

• Drive slowly and avoid sudden stops
• Keep emergency kits in your vehicle (blankets, chargers, snacks, water)
• Avoid unnecessary travel until residential areas are fully plowed
• Check on elderly, disabled, or vulnerable neighbors
• Report uncleared sidewalks or ramps through the City of Aurora 311 system

❄️ More Snow Ahead: Be Prepared

Forecasters working with TNW News warn of another round of light snow midweek, combined with sub-freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of black ice and overnight refreezing.

Plows will continue rotating through high-priority routes, but city officials caution that residential routes may experience delays due to the volume of snowfall and staffing limitations.

TNW News will continue to monitor road conditions, emergency responses, and further storm developments.

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