Temperatures are starting to feel more fall-like around the Rockford region and Chicagoland, but what is currently being forecasted for this winter looks pretty rough.

Harsh Midwestern Winter Returns

According to FoxWeather, a La Niña weather pattern has returned for another go around this year, which means colder and wetter conditions for the Stateline area.

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Some forecast models are predicting 6 to 12 more inches of snow than normal for most of Illinois, and in Wisconsin, a "far above average" snowfall is in the forecast with an additional 12 to 24 inches of snow accumulation possible.

Climate Signals Point to Intensified Cold

Some forecast models are predicting temperatures across all of Illinois and Wisconsin to be "much below average" through this winter, along with precipitation in the region being "much above average." This is setting up to be a snowy winter.

According to forecaster Max Velocity, the last time conditions were set up like this was in 2013 and 2014, when the Midwest had well-above-average snowfall.

Regional Impacts: Where It Could Hurt Most

Northern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin could see long, cold snaps and snow accumulation above normal, especially later in the season.

The Farmers' Almanac is warning of "dramatic swings and widespread wintry weather" for much of the Midwest.

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Heavier lake-effect snow is possible in Wisconsin, especially along the Great Lakes' corridors, where snowfall could be more than 2 feet higher than normal.

What Residents Should Do Now

While it's unlikely we will get any significant snowfall accumulation in October, the more severe winter weather will show up before you know it.

Homeowners should start preparing their snow-removal plans, as local municipalities are beginning to get their equipment ready for the season.

25 costliest hurricanes of all time

Although the full extent of damage caused by Hurricane Ian in the Southwest is still being realized, Ian is already being called one of the costliest storms to ever hit the U.S. Stacker took a look at NOAA data to extrapolate the costliest U.S. hurricanes of all time.  

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