Illinois Roads Snow and Ice Covered in Central and Northern Illinois

IDOT Winter Weather Crews in Full Force in Impacted Areas

CHICAGO, IL – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced that road conditions have improved in some areas throughout the state, where the snowfall and freezing rain has stopped. However, roads are still snow and ice covered in parts of central and northern Illinois, creating slick and dangerous conditions for Illinois motorists.

The National Weather Service has forecasted additional snow accumulations in northern Illinois with temperatures in the mid-20’s and winds expected up to 25 mph.

IDOT has approximately 950 trucks and more than 1,150 employees assigned to impacted areas to remove snow and ice from state routes to help ensure the safety of the motoring public. Due to current weather conditions, IDOT encourages motorists who must travel to check the latest winter road conditions and road closures at www.gettingaroundillinois.com. Currently, all roads are open. The Kampsville and Brussels Ferries are closed due to ice. IDOT will continue to monitor the winter weather statewide and respond accordingly.

“Road conditions have improved in some areas of the state, but roads and bridges are still snow and ice covered from central to northern Illinois,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Ann L. Schneider. “IDOT winter weather crews are working diligently to keep roads clear, but motorists need to use extreme caution if they must travel to avoid any dangerous situations.”

Drivers are reminded to exercise caution when snow and ice affect roadways, and IDOT advises travel only when absolutely necessary during winter storms or when temperatures are extremely low. During the severely cold weather expected, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security

advises that Illinois residents limit exposure to cold temperatures, dress in layers, check in on others who may need additional assistance, keep vehicles in good repair, and bring pets indoors.

For a list of warming centers in Illinois, visit

http://www2.illinois.gov/KeepWarm/Pages/warmingcenter.aspx. Those traveling by Amtrak trains are encouraged to call 800-USA-RAIL or visit Amtrak.com/alerts for Service Alerts and Passenger Notices.

Safety tips to remember:

· * Allow extra time for travel during the winter months.

* Don’t crowd the plow – a snow plow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.

· * Be aware that black ice can form on roads that appear clear and the unseen ice can be treacherous. Take it slow when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges and shady areas – all are prone to black ice, which is often invisible.

· * Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle’s fuel line from freezing.

· * Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary – if you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route and schedule.

· *Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.

· * Carry a few extra blankets in your car, and perhaps an extra coat to ensure protection in case of a breakdown.

· * Carry a cell phone and dial *999 for roadway assistance in case of emergency (but remember using handheld phones while driving is illegal if it is not an emergency situation).

· * Always wear a seat belt, front seat or back – it’s the law.

· * Check travel and road conditions routinely before any trip. You can get road condition information by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368), Illinois Tollway information by calling 1-800-TOLL-FYI or online at www.gettingaroundillinois.com and click on the “winter road conditions” icon.