The Illinois Tollway is preparing to mobilize its full fleet of 182 snowplows in response to sleet and snow that has already started and is expected to continue overnight into Wednesday around the Chicagoland area, according to a press release.
“Our Snow Operations team is monitoring this storm closely and is prepared to manage snowfall throughout the day,” Kristi Lafleur, executive director, Illinois Tollway, said in a statement. “We ask our customers to be patient, drive safely and give our snowplows the room they need to clear the roads, especially during this evening’s rush hour.”
Northern Illinois is expected to get 3 to 6 inches of snow from noon until 9 p.m. Some areas could see totals greater than 6 inches should thundersnow occur. Thundersnow, which indicates that there is greater instability in the atmosphere, typically results in heavier snowfall, according to National Geographic.
All temporary lane closures have been canceled from 9 a.m. today through 7 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 28.
Tips for Save Driving
- Slow down and leave enough time to reach your destination
- Don’t make sudden lane changes and always use your turn signal
- Don't follow too closely and increase your intervals between vehicles
- Reduce speed in cash lanes at toll plazas
- Remember to always wear your safety belt and ensure children under the age of 8 are securely restrained in child safety seats
- Yield to snowplows and emergency vehicles
- Don’t text while driving. It’s illegal.
- Dial *999 on your cell phone to report incidents
