The National Weather Service estimates 2 to 5 inches of snow in Central Illinois on Thursday and Friday. (Photo courtesy National Weather Service)

By Eric Stock

LINCOLN - The heaviest snowfall of what's been a dry winter is on its way to Central Illinois.

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for all of Central Illinois that will be in effect from 6 p.m. until noon Friday.

WMBD 31 meteorologist Karissa Sanford said there's a likelihood of two to five inches of snow, starting in the late afternoon and intensifying in the evening hours.

Sanford said rising temperatures early tomorrow will create the possibility of freezing rain. That might lower snowfall totals, but could making driving more hazardous.

"The worst of the conditions will likely be during the overnight hours, but as we start to get into Friday morning, with that fresh blanket of snow, the possibility of some icing and visibility at a half mile or less during the morning commute, Friday morning could be very tricky," Sanford said.

Sanford says there will be sustained winds of 10 to 20 miles per hour, but gusts of up to 30 miles per hour will make for hazardous driving conditions tonight into the morning.

The National Weather Service says the heaviest snow is expected along and west of the Illinois River, where totals in excess of five inches are likely.

Any cancellations will be posted here.

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.