Effingham, IL-(Effingham Radio)- Our entire listening area is under a Winter Storm Warning from 6:00am Thursday through 6:00am on Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, this warning was issued for a combination of hazardous winter weather impacts, including hazardous travel due to low visibility, icy snow-covered roads, and drifting snow from strong winds.
Snow will begin to develop Thursday morning.
Snowfall amounts will generally remain in the range of 1-4 inches.
Additionally, temperatures will drop by about 20-30 degrees in 2-3 hours behind the cold front.
Strong wind gusts of 30-50 mph are likely.
This will bring dangerous wind chills of -15 to -35 degrees.
Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service in Lincoln.
A flash freeze is also possible to the east of I-55.
The wind gusts will also result in blowing snow and reduced visibility.
Residents should make sure that they are prepared for the impacts that this winter storm will bring.
Travel is not advised due to the reduced visibility and flash freezing.
Additionally, residents should protect pets and livestock; fill up the tank in their vehicle in case they get stranded; dress in layers for the outdoors; run faucets on a drip and open cabinet doors; and make sure to have an updated winter car survival kit.
According to the National Weather Service, a proper winter car survival kit should include jumper cables, flashlights, a first aid kit, baby/personal needs care, food, water, a basic toolkit, pet supplies, radio, cat litter or sand, shovel, ice scraper, clothing, warmers, blankets/sleeping bags, and a charged cell phone.
Residents are also encouraged to be vigilant for signs of hypothermia.
The signs of hypothermia are a temperature of 96 degrees or less, feeling cold and sluggish, and difficulty thinking clearly.
If someone begins to experience signs of hypothermia, they should seek medical attention immediately.
Photo courtesy of the National Weather Service in Lincoln.
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