Peoria expected to bear the brunt of incoming winter storm

This story has been updated to include information about a city parking ban.

Look for between 5 to 11 inches of snowfall as a major winter storm system makes its way into the Peoria area Thursday morning.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Alex Erwin said rain will begin to change to a wintry mix early Thursday morning, shifting to snow by late morning.

"Peoria right now is kind of sitting right in the middle of the band where we expect the heaviest accumulations to occur," Erwin said.

Erwin said it may be a good idea to stay home Thursday, particularly in the afternoon.

"I would prepare for hazardous travel conditions on Thursday, and if at all possible, consider postponing travel," he said.

Ervin said temperatures could hit the 40s again by Sunday. He said the NWS will watch the snow melt over the weekend to gauge the impact it's having on water levels. He said it's too soon to tell if flooding could happen along the Illinois River in Peoria.

A city-wide parking ban has been issued for the city of Peoria from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 6 pm Saturday. The ban allows plows and emergency vehicles to access all city streets.

Residents should not move their cars to alleys. Cars parked on city streets may be subject to towing or a minimum of a $50 ticket.

Car owners are encouraged to move their cars to their driveways, or to the following alternative parking locations:

• Twin Towers Parking Garage, 123 SW Jefferson Street
• Niagara Deck, 109 W Adams Street
• Jefferson Deck, 236 SW Jefferson Street

There will be no charge to residents using the decks, but drivers will need to take a ticket for access. Decks will be monitored by security. The parking decks will be available beginning 4 p.m. Wednesday.