Blizzard in Mercer, Illinois

The COOP Observer in Aledo reported 3.8 inches of new snow. Interstate 74 was closed due to an accident in blowing snow from Woodhull to the Knox County border. Falling and accumulated snow combined with strong winds with frequent winds gusts of 35 to 45 MPH resulted in widespread blowing and drifting snow and significant reductions in visibilities for several hours.

A large storm system moved across the Midwest March 15 to the 16th, initially bringing rain and thunderstorms to the area on the morning of the 15th. This storm system intensified rapidly into the evening drawing much colder air into the region. This resulted in widespread snow across the area with strong west with frequent gusts of 40 to 55 MPH. many area airports reported visibilities as low a half a mile with several of a quarter of a mile or less for several hours. Local news reported that most areas schools were closed and several Department of Transportation districts reported snow covered road ways.