A wintry mix approaching the Chicagoland area has triggered preparations from state officials and utility companies. The Illinois Department of Transportation and ComEd are taking steps to mitigate potential hazards, while experts warn about the dangers of ice accumulation for both drivers and trees.
A wintry mix is forecast to hit the Chicagoland area, prompting state officials and utility companies to prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has mobilized its crews and stocked up on road treatments, including salt and brine, in anticipation of the storm, which is expected to impact the region Wednesday evening.
'Even though we're out there and we're treating the roads there could very well be areas that are still slick,' said IDOT spokesperson Maria Castaneda. While heavy snow accumulation isn't anticipated, crews are focusing on preventing freezing rain from creating hazardous driving conditions. Both salt and brine are being used to ensure road treatments remain effective, particularly during overnight hours when temperatures plummet. 'So does the temperature of the roadway. So even though you go in and your treat that a lot of times because of the lower temperatures it can freeze back,' Castaneda explained. 'So of course that means we're going to be treating areas multiple times.' ComEd, the local utility company, has implemented extra staffing plans for Wednesday night and Thursday, aiming to minimize the impact of ice potentially weighing down power lines. The company urges residents to report any downed power lines immediately by calling 1-800-EDISON1 (1-800-334-7661) or 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237) for Spanish-speaking customers.The looming wintry mix also raises concerns about potential tree damage. Sharon Yiesla of The Morton Arboretum warns that even small amounts of ice accumulation can be detrimental, especially to trees with weaker or softer wood. 'A lot of people want to run out and shake trees and shake shrubs and try to get that ice off,' Yiesla said. 'And we really advise against that because when you start shaking bold and brittle branches there's a chance you're going to break them,' she added. AAA, the automotive association, recommends drivers be extra cautious, as ice buildup is more prevalent at intersections, bridges, and overpasses. If drivers encounter ice, they are advised to steer and look in the direction they want to go. Additionally, AAA suggests having an emergency kit in the car, including a phone charger, jumper cables, blankets, warm clothing, and sand or kitty litter for additional traction if needed.
WINTERY MIX CHICAGO WEATHER ICE STORM ROAD CONDITIONS POWER OUTAGES TREE DAMAGE SAFETY TIPS
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