A major winter storm has blanketed the entire area with more than a foot of snow in some areas. The heavy snowfall has left major highways still ice-covered, while secondary and county roads remain dangerous. Many remain covered even if they were plowed. Officials report that in some cases, plowed roads are even slicker than before, causing additional hazards for travelers.
Carmi Police Chief Jason Carter says, “Main roads in town are all passable and they continue to work on the secondary roads in town. All roads, although most are passable, are extremely slick. We have only handled 2 minor accidents related to the weather. Most are getting stuck trying to get into or out of drives and parking lots as they are still deep with snow. However, we have assisted upwards of 15 to 20 motorists that were stuck by either pushing or pulling them out and have given numerous people rides that were observed out in this weather on foot. Please stay home and allow as much work in clearing streets, drives, and sidewalks today as possible. “
City of Carmi Manager Brad Attebury says nobody has utilized the city council chambers that’s been designated as the municipality’s only warming center. Furthermore, he’s asking residents to be patient as 2 of the 3 plow trucks went down Sunday and officials are working to get them repaired as of Monday morning.
City of Carmi Fire Chief Daniel Ballard says a fire broke out at a home on Shockaw Street Saturday night about 10pm. Crews were on scene for about 4 hours. He says the cause is undetermined, but luckily the homeowner wasn’t home at the time of the blaze.
Highway crews are struggling to make progress due to extreme cold temperatures, which render salt ineffective. Strong winds are compounding the problem, blowing dry snow and causing drifting in several locations. While IDOT has been working on state highways, local and township crews are attempting to clear secondary and rural roads.
Authorities across the region are urging residents to avoid travel. Clearing efforts are ongoing, but the combination of snow accumulation, and persistent subzero temperatures has made roadways extremely hazardous.
An EXTREME COLD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 10 AM TUESDAY. Wind chills as low as 10 to 19 below zero are expected, posing a significant risk of hypothermia and frostbite. Exposure to these temperatures without proper protection can quickly lead to severe health risks.
Officials urge residents to dress in layers, including hats, face masks, and gloves, if they must venture outside. Residents are also encouraged to frequently check on elderly family members, friends, and neighbors, and to ensure portable heaters are used safely.
Travel is strongly discouraged until conditions improve and temperatures aren’t expected as of now to rise above freezing until next Monday.