November is National Winter Preparedness Month

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While the winter of 2015-16 is expected to be milder thanks to the effects of El Nino, it is unlikely Illinois will completely avoid the cold temperatures, snow, and ice that define Midwestern winters.

To help people prepare for potentially dangerous winter weather, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), the National Weather Service (NWS) and local emergency management agencies will highlight winter weather preparedness throughout November.

“There hasn’t been a winter in Illinois without at least one winter storm in the past century,” said IEMA Director James K. Joseph. “Right now, before that first snowstorm or ice event, is the perfect time to prepare yourself, your home, and your car for winter.”

“Despite winter outlooks indicating mild and less snowy conditions in Illinois this coming winter, don’t let your guard down,” said Chris Miller, warning coordination meteorologist with the NWS office in Lincoln. “We can still expect cold temperatures, snow, and ice, which will impact travelers. In fact, minor accumulations of snow or ice can be just as dangerous for drivers as major winter storms, so they need to adjust their driving accordingly.”

IEMA, the NWS, and the American Red Cross developed a winter weather preparedness guide that covers winter weather terms and tips for staying safe at home, in the car, and at school.

The Winter Storm Preparedness Guide is available now.