The Illinois State Police are telling drivers to stay off the road during the oncoming winter storm unless travel is “absolutely necessary.”
In a message Wednesday afternoon, the department said it was “asking the public to stay off roadways over the next few days during the severe winter weather that is expected to begin.” [Thursday].”
“If travel is absolutely necessary, allow enough time to travel and be aware of dangerous road conditions, vehicles stranded on the side of the road, emergency vehicles and personnel assisting them. Please slow down and move,” the message read.
The ISP stressed that anyone on the road should remember Scott’s Law and not only slow down, but move when approaching an emergency vehicle.
“With dangerous winter weather approaching, it is very important that everyone follows the rules of Scott’s Law. ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly said in a statement. “Our police officers and road workers are risking their lives to make our roads safe. Please pay, slow down and move.”
The message comes as forecasters are forecasting “whiteout” conditions, “zero visibility” and near-impossible travel conditions in the days leading up to the Christmas holidays.
A winter storm warning will be issued for McHenry, DeKalb, Kane, LaSalle, Kendall, and Grundy counties at 9 a.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. The warning goes into effect at noon for Lake, DuPage, Kankakee, Cook, and Will counties in Illinois, and at 3:00 p.m. in Lake, Newton, and Jasper counties in northwestern Indiana.
Valid area-wide until 6am on Saturday.
The National Weather Service warns travelers and motorists (whether they’re getting out of town or just down the road) that traveling conditions during a storm can be potentially “life-threatening.” I warn you there is.
Storms occur during one of the busiest travel times of the year. According to the AAA, 113 million Americans (her 5.8 million in Illinois) are expected to travel more than 50 miles between Dec. 23 and Jan. 2. increase. toll road system.
Illinois Tollway said it plans to increase personnel in preparation for the storm.
“Our number one priority during this storm is to operate plows around the clock to quickly remove snow and ice from the roads and to quickly assist drivers whose vehicles have been disabled by the system during this severe weather. By responding, we are keeping our customers safe,” said Cassandra Rouse, executive director of Tollway, Illinois, in a statement. “Our customers can ensure their safety by slowing down, extending their time to reach their destination, and giving snowplows the extra space they need to clear the road. ”
Toll Road reminded drivers to call 999 and seek help from the Illinois Police District 15 if they get stuck.
Here are some other tips the toll road recommends to drivers.
- surely mobile phone is fully charged before going out.
- Make sure the tires are properly inflated cold season. A tire loses 1 pound of pressure for every 10 degrees he drops in temperature.
- keep the gas tank at least half full Avoid freezing gas lines and make sure you allow for extra driving time in case of bad weather.
- keep cold weather gear Inside the vehicle including gloves, boots, blankets, road lighting equipment, water and a flashlight with fresh batteries.
- A stranded driver should Turn on the emergency lights and stay in the vehicle until help comes.
At the same time, Metra announced it would be implementing a “changed” schedule, reducing service on its lines on Friday.
“With a blizzard expected in the Chicago area and many regular commuters already beginning their Christmas holidays, Metra will be reducing service on most routes throughout the system on Friday, December 23,” a Metra statement said. I read and added that I will operate as normal. Weekday schedule for Thursday. Click here for detailed schedule information.