By Illinois Radio Network/Jim Moran
SPRINGFIELD – Much of Illinois is expected to see winter weather this weekend with forecasts showing that depending on the part of the state, residents should prepare for ice, freezing rain, snow, or a mixture of some or all three.
Illinois Emergency Management Agency spokeswoman Rebecca Clark advised residents to stay vigilant and prepare for the impending weather.
Acting IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau said with the current ground saturation in Illinois and the current forecast for heavy rain.
“We see a threat for flash flooding,” she said.
“This is a good reminder that anywhere it rains, it can flood,” Tate-Nadeau said. “We want everyone to be aware of current conditions and be prepared to follow local instructions if watches or warnings are issued.”
Clark recommended having multiple ways to receive weather notifications and updates. She said having a NOAA weather radio available was a good idea. She also recommended making sure smartphone settings were updated to receive government emergency alerts. The IEMA said with a WEA-enabled phone, residents will receive tornado and flash flood warnings issued for their location, even when traveling. Local radio, TV, and outdoor warning sirens are another way to stay informed.
Officials also advised having an emergency kit prepared for homes and cars. IEMA and the National Weather Service created a winter weather preparedness guide. The guide is available at ready.illinois.gov.
Updated road conditions are available online at GettingAroundIllinois.com. Officials said the road conditions map averages more than 2 million visitors during the snow and ice season in Illinois.
