Lake County Declared Civil Emergency
Ann Maine District 21 February 2, 2011
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A Note from Ann | Dear Neighbors,
As you know, I try to not be an alarmist, so please take the following information seriously. Even if travel in your area seems good, conditions can change rapidly and we are still experiencing severe weather. The blizzard last night left many roads impassable and crews are all working overtime.
A civil emergency has been declared in Lake County until 5 pm Wednesday February 2. Although your local roads may seem clear, you are asked to stay off the roads as this is a life threatening situation. While all resources are being used to reach stranded motorists, traveling may put your life at risk, as emergency responders may not be able to get to you for several hours.
Over 150 stranded motorists have already been rescued in Lake County and more remain trapped in their vehicles. There are drifts 5 feet high and some heavy trucks have also been trapped.
If you must travel, be prepared to stay in your vehicle if it becomes stuck. You should have blankets, food, water and a charged cell phone with you. If you are stranded--DO NOT LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE. Run your vehicle for 10 minutes per hour. Be sure youe exhaust pipe is not covered and crack open a downward window for ventilation.
You can learn the latest in State of Illinois Preparation. including travel tips, and state facility closures.
Please continue your good neighbor policy and check on the sick and elderly, especially if power is lost, as it has been in some areas.
FEMA has information on winter storms and extreme cold.
You can also monitor weather conditions at the Illinois Severe Weather Site . The Regional Weather also has updated information.
Please pass this notice on to anyone who might find it helpful and stay safe.
If there are any important changes in the situation, I will update you later today. For additional information, please visit Lake County.
Ann
Ann B. Maine Lake County District 21 amaine@lakecountyil.gov
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Weather Information on line
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If you are interested in following the weather, you may want to visit the National Weather Service site. Of special interest are the "forecast discussion" and the "hourly weather graph." These are both accessed by clicking on your approximate location on the area map, then scrolling to the bottom of the resulting local forecast page. On the forecast page, there are links within the bottom right text box labeled "Additional Forecasts and Information" for both the "Forecast Discussion" and the "Hourly Weather Graph." The discussion provides a technical discussion of the most recent forecast models, expectations, and uncertainty. The hourly weather graph displays a variety of forecast parameters for the next 48-hour period, which is helpful when considering the onset of precipitation or changes in wind speed and direction.
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