The Midwest braces for severe winter weather as the National Weather Service issues Winter Storm Warnings across central Illinois, predicting significant snowfall and blustery winds.
URBANA – The National Weather Service has declared Winter Storm Warnings for Champaign County and much of Central Illinois, effective until noon on Monday. IPM meteorologist Andrew Pritchard has outlined forecasts of winter storm conditions characterized by heavy snow and possible blustery winds on Sunday afternoon and night.
Updated reports indicate considerable closures throughout the region, with city and county government buildings shut due to the harsh weather conditions. Many educational institutions are implementing e-learning days; notable closures include Parkland College, Lake Land College, and Millikin University.
Pritchard noted on Sunday at 9:15 p.m. during conversations with IPM's Kimberly Schofield, “The snow is starting to end. But winds will continue to cause lower visibility until midday.” This information suggests potential hazards for anyone needing to travel.
According to Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), most roadways remain covered with snow and ice as of Sunday evening. The agency warned residents about hazardous travel conditions across the state, affecting highways extending from Springfield to Danville and beyond.
The snowfall intensifying around midday on Sunday left roads largely untraveled, with snow removal crews mobilizing across the downtown areas. Pritchard has echoed IDOT’s statement, reinforcing the necessity for individuals to stay home when possible to allow Public Works crews time to effectively clear roadways.
City officials, including the Champaign Public Works Department, confirmed they are deploying resources to address the snowstorm's impact. Public Works Operations Manager Cory Conrad released public statements urging residents to adhere to the City’s Snow and Ice Control Plan. Drivers were reminded to utilize off-street parking where possible to facilitate easier snow removal operations.
The city's proactive strategy includes educational outreach via the website champaignil.gov/snow and broadcasting updates through CGTV cable channel 5, keeping residents informed of any changes due to the weather.
RANTOUL has also declared a snow emergency, restricting parking on designated snow routes starting Sunday at 7:00 a.m. This emergency declaration is part of extensive preparations across the area, which also includes warnings from the Alzheimer’s Association emphasizing the needs for caregivers to protect those with Alzheimer’s during such severe weather.
The Alzheimer’s Association cautioned, “60% of those with Alzheimer’s will wander at some point,” pointing out the dangers during freezing temperatures. The association has shared resources and tips to manage the risk of wandering, especially pertinent during winter conditions.
MO Department of Transportation officials echoed similar concerns, advising drivers to remain off the roads on Monday due to the anticipated continued low visibility. MoDOT Chief Safety and Operations Officer Becky Allmeroth stated, “Motorists…cannot let their guards down once this precipitation ends,” referencing the wind gusts and blowing snow anticipated to affect road conditions significantly.
Across Missouri, MoDOT has activated approximately 1,500 snow trucks, which will be on 12-hour shifts until conditions improve. Reports indicated numerous incidents on the roads, with the Missouri State Highway Patrol responding to 582 calls, including efforts with 455 stranded motorists over the weekend.
Meanwhile, officials from the Springfield area and across central Illinois anticipate up to ten inches of snow spread over two events by Monday. Forecasts suggest potential freezing drizzle complicate the situation, particularly affecting travel visibility.
The Office of Public Works has declared snow emergencies along designated routes until 11 p.m. Monday. Residents are required to remove vehicles parked on these routes, and the threat of fines for non-compliance has been issued. The public health advisory provides complete guidelines for snow removal and sidewalk maintenance, emphasizing safety as the foremost priority.
Local officials assure residents their roads are being actively maintained, saying roads are “passable and open” as of noon Sunday. Springfield's Public Works Director, Dave Fuchs, highlighted their responsive measures involving 28 department plows deployed prior to the worst of the snowfall.
Meanwhile, various driving tips have been communicated by Illinois State Police to help navigate winter conditions. Motorists are urged to plan routes carefully, travel with others if possible, check current weather updates, and prioritize safety.
With reports continuously updated and warnings still active, residents across the Midwest are encouraged to remain cautious and informed amid the impactful weather. Maintaining communication with local transportation services and adhering to public health and safety advisories will be key as this winter storm progresses.