If you are planning to travel over the New Year’s weekend, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency is saying ‘Know Before You Go’ as winter weather takes aim on the state.
According to the National Weather Service, rain and snow is likely over portions of the state, and throughout the Midwest. It is expected to make travel dangerous at times.
‘’This forecast winter storm is slated to arrive in the Midwest at a time when holiday travel is at its peak. It is with that in mind that we remind all travelers to monitor road conditions and only travel during a winter storm if it is absolutely necessary,’’ said Illinois Emergency Management Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau.
At this time it appears the precipitation in our area this week is expected to be mostly rain, but it could mix at times with snow according to our forecast. And a developing weather system could bring accummulating snow to parts of Illinois this weekend. Temperatures are expected to climb to the mid-40s on Friday before turning sharply colder. Night-time lows on Friday and Saturday are expected to plunge to the teens.
The National Weather Service says now is a good time to familiarize yourself with the various weather alert definitions, so you know how to keep your family safe.
Other suggestions from the Weather Service include:
- Build a home emergency kit with items such as food, water, medications, a flashlight and batteries, plus a NOAA weather radio.
- Stock your vehicle with emergency items – such as non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, phone charger, blankets, extra clothes, jumper cables, kitty litter or sand, a flashlight and snow scraper.
- Charge your mobile devices before any storm arrives.
- Winterize your home and take steps to prevent frozen water pipes.
- Check and monitor road conditions by visiting gettingaroundillinois.com.
- And don’t wait…communicate. Create and discuss emergency plans for you and your family.
Again, the precipitation in our area this week is expected to be mostly rain, but it could mix at times with snow. However, a developing weather system in the southwest could bring accummulating snow to parts of Illinois this weekend. And the Weather Service says now is a good time to prepare as we head further into winter.
