Heavy snow, bitter cold across Illinois to make travel hazardous

Major winter storm blanketing Illinois, IDOT, ISP urge public to avoid driving

February 15, 2021 12

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police are warning the public that a major winter storm will create hazardous conditions across the state, urging drivers to strongly consider postponing any unnecessary travel. Throughout Illinois, intense periods of heavy snow and continued bitter cold should be anticipated, creating extremely slick conditions and poor visibility.

“As always, our team at IDOT will be out on the roads around the clock, but if you can stay indoors, please do, especially during the overnight hours,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Conditions at times could be treacherous, with the cold and wind reducing the effectiveness of the materials we use to treat snow and ice. Expect extremely long travel times and always prepare your vehicle in the event you are stranded.”

Portions of Illinois to receive up to a foot of snow (maybe more)

The National Weather Service has issued a storm warning for today and Tuesday, predicting the heaviest snow to fall late this afternoon and evening. Areas east of Interstate 57, including Chicago, the Metro East, and far southern Illinois, should expect between 6 to 12 inches of snowfall. Along the entire Interstate 55 corridor, 5 to 8 inches are possible. In northwestern Illinois, there should be an anticipation of up to two inches. Blowing and drifting snow throughout the state are likely due to the amounts and fluffiness of the snow with a combination of high winds.

Statewide, IDOT has available more than 1,800 trucks and equipment to treat roads and respond to weather emergencies. If you encounter a plow or any maintenance vehicle during your travels, please slow down, increase your driving distance and remain patient.

“If you must travel, we ask that you allow additional time to reach your destination and ensure your vehicle is in a safe operating condition,” said ISP Director Brendan Kelly. “Please obey all traffic laws and posted speed limits. Remember, speed limits are set for clear conditions. Only drive the speed limit if it is safe to do so. And please watch out for emergency responders and highway maintainers who are doing their best to keep the roadways safe.”

Travel tips in inclement winter weather

Other tips if you must travel:

Take it slow, especially when approaching intersections, ramps, and bridges. Other areas of note include shady areas that are usually prone to icing.
Make sure your gas tank is full.
Keep an emergency kit inside your vehicle. This includes warm clothes, blankets, food, water, a first-aid kit, washer fluid, and an ice scraper in your vehicle. An important tool to keep is an emergency cell phone to call for help.
Check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your route and schedule.
Carry a cellphone and dial *999 in the Chicago area for assistance in case of emergency.
Reminder: Using handheld phones while driving is illegal in Illinois unless it is an emergency situation.
If you have involvement in a crash or break down, remain inside your vehicle. This is your safest form of shelter. Exiting your vehicle into live traffic can have fatal consequences.
Always wear a seat belt, whether you’re sitting in the front seat or back seat. It’s the law.

For regular updates on statewide road conditions, visit www.gettingaroundillinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and Twitter.

For more local and Illinois news, follow Jake Leonard on Twitter @JakeLeonardWPMD and Heartland Newsfeed @HLNF_Bulletin on Twitter.

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Jake Leonard

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Jake Leonard, a broadcast media and journalism veteran, is the editor-in-chief of Heartland Newsfeed. Leonard is also GM and program director of Heartland Newsfeed Radio Network, wrestling editor and contributing writer for Ambush Sports, a contributing writer for My Sports Vote and Midwest Sports Network, and a former contributor to Bleacher Report and Overtime Heroics. He resides at home in Nokomis, Ill. with his dog Buster.