Thursday forecast: freezing rain topped by snow

National Weather Service advice: Don't get caught unprepared for winter weather

[NOV. 28, 2006]  The National Weather Service is predicting mild temperatures and less rain and snow, on average, for the upcoming winter in Illinois. However, Illinoisans are still advised to be prepared for the effects of winter weather.

"We can expect a few cold outbreaks and winter precipitation, despite the winter outlook," said Chris Miller, warning coordination meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Lincoln. "That's why it is still important to be ready at home, and especially while planning travel."

To help the citizens of Illinois become more aware of how to be prepared for winter, the National Weather Service declared the week of Nov. 12-18 as Winter Weather Preparedness Week in Illinois. The National Weather Service is joining forces with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, American Red Cross, Illinois State Police, Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois Department on Aging and the Office of the State Fire Marshal to educate the public about the hazards of winter weather.

Winter weather is often called the "deceptive killer" because winter storms and extreme cold result in nearly 80 fatalities annually across the United States. Numerous traffic accidents, injuries from slips and falls, and many cases of frostbite are also some of the consequences of the winter season.

"Drivers in Illinois need to be aware of the forecast for the first snowfall of the season and then slow down," Miller said. "Most injuries and fatalities attributed to winter weather are a result of auto accidents. It doesn't take much snow or ice to produce very slippery conditions."

Some simple and inexpensive things that can be done to get ready for the winter season:

• Make sure you and your vehicle are ready for winter driving conditions. If you are planning a trip, check the weather forecast along the entire route.

• Have a winter storm survival kit in your auto, with the following items:

  • Cell phone and charger

  • Blankets and extra clothing

  • Flashlight

  • First-aid kit and any prescription medications

  • Ice scraper, snow brush and small shovel

  • Booster cables, a tow rope, and sack of sand or cat litter

  • Water and high-calorie, nonperishable food

  • A tow rope, tool kit, compass and road maps

• Know the terms related to winter storms and extreme cold:

  • A watch means that a winter storm is possible, and you need to watch weather forecasts closely.

  • A warning means that a winter storm is imminent or already under way. Travel is not recommended, unless it is an emergency.

  • An advisory means that the winter weather will produce an inconvenience, especially to travelers. Extra precautions need to be taken to avoid accidents.

• Have emergency supplies on hand at work and home, including a battery-operated NOAA weather radio, extra food and medication, flashlights, and extra batteries.

• Winterize your home to save money on fuel costs. If you have an alternate heating source, use it safely with proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more information about being adequately prepared for winter weather, visit Lincoln's National Weather Service office "Winter Weather Safety" Web page at www.weather.gov/lincoln/winter/winter.php.

[National Weather Service news release provided by Chris Miller]

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