According to the National Weather Service, extreme weather is expected to hit our Chicagoland region and many parts of the country. This is deemed as a "once in a generation" type of event due to its size. The winter storm is expected to start Thursday, December 22nd, and continue all the way to Saturday, December 24th at 6 am. This is a dangerous storm as it is expected to bring more than 6 inches of snow with wind gusts up to 50 mph and a 30-degree below-zero temperature drop. We will survive this and as a community, we always come together in difficult times so please stay alert and ask for help.

• Notify Chicago: Sign up for emergency alerts at www.NotifyChicago.org 
• CHILAKE: For lakefront notices, including flooding, TEXT “CHILAKE” to 7-8-0-1-5 
• CHIBIZ: Business updates, TEXT “CHIBIZ” to 6-7-2-8-3 

Please review below all information related to the resources available in this special newsletter alert for tips and where to find shelter or support. For emergency assistance please call 9-1-1 and please contact 3-1-1 if you have non-emergency concerns. It's also critical to check in on neighbors and anybody who is disabled or elderly that you know of.

Resources - Winter Storm Edition

Ahead of the winter storm that is supposed to hit tomorrow, the City of Chicago has put out a special page of information about how to stay warm when at home and outside, along with recommended winter attire and signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

For those traveling for the holidays, we pulled some details and tips to know before you leave. All additional information can be found here.

When Traveling

If you decide a trip cannot be delayed, consider using public transportation if it is available. If you decide to drive your vehicle:

 Before You Leave

• Plan your travel and check the latest weather conditions along your travel route. Listen to weather forecasts on TV, local radio stations or NOAA Weather Radio. Call 1-800-452-IDOT or go to the IDOT website (www.gettingaroundillinois.com) to get current road conditions for Chicago and all Illinois' interstate.
• Check your wipers, tires, lights, and fluid level. Lubricate door and trunk locks with lock lubricant to prevent them from freezing. Start with a full tank of gas.
• Travel during daylight hours on main roads and don't travel alone.
• Carry a Winter Storm Survival Kit in your vehicle (Go Bag).
• Provide your itinerary to a friend, relative, or co-workers. Include information on where you are going, the routes you will travel, and when you expect to arrive. When you reach your destination, make a call to report that you have arrived.

On The Road

• Buckle your seat belts!
• Be prepared to turn back and seek shelter if conditions become threatening.
• Keep your windows clear of snow and ice. Do not start driving until your windshield is defrosted.
• Drive slower and increase your following distance. Your speed should be adjusted for the conditions and match the flow of traffic.
• Roadway conditions may vary depending on the sun, shade, or roadway surface. Watch for slick spots especially under bridges, on overpasses, and in shaded spots.
• If the pavement is snow or ice covered, start slowly and brake gently. Begin braking early when you come to an intersection. If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes. Steer into the direction of the skid until you feel you have regained traction, then straighten your vehicle.
• If your vehicle becomes stuck in the snow, contact a towing company – but be prepared to wait in the cold weather for up to several hours. If you can be safely pulled out by another vehicle, make sure you use
• tow ropes with loops on the ends. Avoid chains or hooks if at all possible, since these can slip off and recoil very quickly – causing injury or death.
• When a snowplow is coming toward you, allow plenty of room for the truck to pass. When the centerline is being cleared and salted, the plow tip may be on or over the line.
• When you approach a snowplow from behind, pass with care and only when you can see the road ahead of the truck. You should not try to pass in blowing snow; there may be a vehicle in that cloud of snow. Allow more distance between you and the plow, which may be spreading salt.
• While traveling, refuel often ---- keep your gas tank near full to prevent ice in the tank and fuel lines, which could leave you stranded. These frequent stops should also help relieve tense muscles.

If Stranded

• Pull as far off the road as possible, set your hazard lights to "flashing," and hang or tie a colored cloth (preferably red) to your antenna, window, or door. After the snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate trouble. If you have a cell phone, call for help.
• Stay in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not set out on foot unless you can see a building close by where you know you can take shelter.
• Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow, and then run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine. When the engine is running, open a window slightly for ventilation. Periodically clear away snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise to keep blood circulating and to maintain body heat by vigorously moving arms, legs, fingers, and toes. In extreme cold or if you don't have a Winter Storm Survival Kit, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation.
• Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look out for rescue crews.
• Be careful not to use up battery power. Balance electrical energy needs -- the use of lights, heat, and radio -- with supply.

Sincerely,

Kelly Cassidy

State Representative, 14th District



Office of State Representative Kelly Cassidy

5533 N Broadway

Chicago IL 60640