The National Weather Service (NWS) has a Winter Weather Advisory in place this weekend in the Peoria Region. That’s expected to bring cold weather, windy conditions, and a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow.
Local Health Departments encourage travelers to be aware of slippery roads. They are also offering warming centers for people who need shelter during this cold weather.
Peoria City/County Health Department encourages families to remember these tips:
- Prepare emergency kits for homes and cars.
- Check on friends and neighbors.
- Bundle up for winter, especially children who are particularly vulnerable to very cold temperatures.
- Consider bringing pets inside during extreme weather.
- Review your family communications plan if you are separated or late for arrival.
- Understand the signs of hypothermia.
- Learn your County name, since county names are used to identify areas of risk
- Know where to get winter info and alerts.
Illinois State Police Winter Travel Advisory
District 8 Safety Education Officer, Trooper Ross Green:
Peoria - With the prediction of snow, freezing rain, and extremely cold temperatures Friday night into Sunday morning, Illinois State Police (ISP) District 08 is warning motorists to take the necessary precautions before getting behind the wheel. Vehicle safety is equally important to driving safely while on the roadways.
Winter weather can have a devastating impact on driving conditions, especially when ice and freezing rain is involved. Illinois State Police officials urge motorists to drive with caution, and to allow extra travel time to get to their final destinations. Please use extreme caution when traveling across elevated roadway surfaces such as bridges and interstate exit ramps. IDOT crews will be out and taking the proper precautions but be watchful for black ice.
Illinois State Police also want to remind motorists to yield to emergency and snow removal equipment. It is the law (Scott’s Law) to reduce your speed, change lanes if possible, and proceed with due caution...Slow Down and Move Over!
Stranded motorists are encouraged to remain inside their vehicles and wait for first responders to arrive. Motorists involved in accidents that do not require emergency care may file an accident report within 10 days at the nearest police station.
Motorists can obtain up-to-date road condition information by contacting the Illinois Department of Transportation at 1-800-452-IDOT (4368) or by visiting www.gettingaroundillinois.com.
ADDITIONAL HOTLINK RESOURCES:
Peoria City/County Health Department preparedness kits
Illinois Weathering Winter booklet
Central Illinois Emergency Information alerts on Facebook
211 Community Resource information line or dial 2-1- 1 on your phone (if you have trouble connecting, 309-999- 4029)