Photo Credit: Getty Images
By Illinois Department of Transportation
The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police advise the public that a winter storm with the potential for several inches of snow is anticipated Wednesday, creating slick and slippery conditions, reduced visibility and longer travel times across much of the state. The team from IDOT will be plowing and treating roads throughout the event. Still, the public should be prepared and consider adjusting travel plans, especially during the height of the storm in the afternoon and evening.
“Our snow and ice crews will be out in force, but your patience will be key to ensuring the safety of everyone,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “With all major weather events, your safest option always is to avoid nonessential travel and stay home. If you must drive, slow down and build plenty of extra time in your schedule. Please consider public transportation as well.”
The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories and winter storm warnings for most of central and northern Illinois for Wednesday into early Thursday. Up to three inches of snow are expected north of Springfield, with four to six inches in Quincy and Peoria. As much as eight inches are anticipated in northwest Illinois, including Rockford and the Quad Cities. The Chicago region is expected to receive between 4 and 6 inches, with the most intense period during the afternoon and evening.
Statewide, IDOT has more than 1,800 trucks and equipment available to spread salt, plow snow and respond to weather emergencies as needed. Please, do not crowd the plows. Give them plenty of room to do their jobs and do not attempt to pass too closely. Conditions in front of the plow are going to be worse than behind it.
Please drive according to conditions, reducing speed, increasing braking distances and allowing more space between you and other vehicles. Before heading out, check current road conditions 24/7 at GettingAroundIllinois.com. You also can follow IDOT on Facebook and X.
“One of the most important things you need to do if you have to drive on snowy and icy roads is to slow down,” said ISP Division of Patrol Col. Chris Owen. “The extra five minutes it takes you to get where you’re going is better than the time lost because you’ve been involved in a crash or not arrived at all.”
Other tips:
- Check the forecast and ensure someone knows your travel route and schedule.
- Fill up your tank or fully charge your vehicle and pack winter weather essentials, such as a cellphone charger, traction materials, warm clothes, blankets, food, water, first-aid kit, washer fluid and ice scraper.
- Use extra caution in areas susceptible to icing, including ramps, bridges, curves and shaded areas. Watch for black ice. A road may appear clear but can be extremely slippery.
- Give them distance. Obey the Move Over law by slowing down and changing lanes when approaching ANY stopped vehicle.
- Always wear a seat belt. It’s the law and your best protection in the event of a crash.
- Drop it and drive. Put down the mobile devices. This, too, is the law.
- If you are involved in a crash, remain inside your vehicle. Exiting your vehicle near a busy road can have fatal consequences.