Chicago climate: reported snow totals of about a foot in the area as plows start clearing the side streets

CHICAGO (WLS) – The Chicago area is excavating on Monday after a snowstorm over the weekend blew 30 centimeters of snow into parts of the area.

Over the weekend, O’Hare Airport recorded 9.9 inches of snow and at least 11 inches of snow in Midway. It was the biggest snowstorm in the Chicago area in over five years.

Snow totals

Peotone: 12.7 “
Romeoville: 12.7 “
Downers Grove: 12.4 “
Morton Grove 12.1 “
Oak Park: 12.0 “
Deerfield: 12.0 “
Flossmoor: 11.5 “
Plainfield: 11.2 “
Halfway: 11 “
Schaumburg: 10.3 “

Tinley Park 10.0 “
Homer Glen: 9.5 “
O’Hare: 9.9 “
Crown Point 9.5 “

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The snow was wet and heavy, making it a challenge to follow sidewalks and driveways. Snowblowers passed through the main streets, but hours later they were covered again.

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Winter is expected to continue, with extremely low temperatures expected for the next weekend.

Get the latest AccuWeather updates here

WATCH: Pieces of ice float on Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan was a sight to behold during the snowstorm this weekend.

Some people came down to film the huge chunks of ice floating in the water.

Tips if you need to travel:

Go slow, especially when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shaded areas that are prone to freezing.

Make sure your gas tank is full.

Keep a cell phone, warm clothing, blankets, food, water, first aid kit, washing liquid and ice scraper in your vehicle.

Check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your route and schedule.

Take a cell phone and dial * 999 in the Chicago area for emergency assistance.

Reminder: Using mobile phones while driving is illegal in Illinois, unless it is an emergency.

If you are involved in an accident, stay inside the vehicle. Leaving your vehicle for active traffic can have fatal consequences.

Always wear your seat belt, whether you are sitting in the front or back seat. It’s the law.

North side residents build 15-foot snowman

Some people on the north side of the city made good use of the snow and built this giant snowman.

An ABC7 photographer said he was about 4.5 meters tall and some children stood in front of her to get a perspective.