Updated: The Sangamon County Winter Weather Emergency has been lifted.
Following consultation with county emergency services, the Sangamon County Board has issued a Level 1 Winter Weather Emergency for Friday, January 10.
A Level 1 winter emergency is the initial warning stage in the county’s 3-tier system; snowfall accumulation throughout Friday morning and early afternoon has resulted in wet, slick road conditions which may pose a hazard to motorists. Drivers are advised to exercise an abundance of caution while using roads impacted by snowfall, particularly as fluctuating temperatures may result in snowmelt, and consequently, the formation of ice on the roads.
The Sangamon County Board’s Winter Weather Emergency system is as follows:
LEVEL 1: Roadways are hazardous. Drivers may encounter blowing and drifting snow and roadways may be icy. Drivers should use caution.
LEVEL 2: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow and may be icy. There are areas where the roadways may be partially closed by the elements. Travel on County Highways is discouraged. No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. Emergency personnel may not be able to respond in a timely manner if you are stranded.
LEVEL 3: Weather conditions have fully closed the County Highways. No one should be out during these conditions. Emergency personnel will not be able to respond in a timely manner if you are stranded.
Abandoned vehicles on County Highways that obstruct public safety and road clearing operations will be subject to towing and ticketing by the County. If a vehicle becomes stranded on the roadway, the owners are to notify Sangamon County Central Dispatch at (217)-753-6666. Motorists are expected to provide their license plate number, vehicle description, vehicle location and a call back number; this information is especially important if they choose to abandon their vehicle. Notifying central dispatch of an abandoned vehicle allows emergency crews to know that a motorist is safe if they come upon their vehicle.
