Most Kane County Schools Closed Monday in Wake of Super Bowl Sunday Blizzard
So, how bad is it going to be on Monday?
For starters, most Kane County public schools will be closed.
Kane County was under a Blizzard Warning until midnight on Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015.
When all is said and done, snow accumulations of 10 to 16 inches are expected. The northeast winds were gusting up to 45 mph Sunday afternoon. The main impact is the combination of snow and very strong winds that the National Weather Service says is making travel “extraordinarily dangerous.”
The Tribune reports that more than 1,000 Chicago flights were cancelled Sunday.
The NWS is warning of the possibility of downed power lines.
A quick check of the Kane County public school websites Sunday night indicated that most districts were closing up on Monday. The following is where to look for school-closing information for Kane County public schools, plus links and information on Metra and expressway travel.
Kane County School Closings Info
Here are links to school district web pages and Facebook pages for additional information.
East Aurora School District 131
West Aurora School District 129
Batavia School District 101
Central School District 301
Geneva School District 304
Kaneland School District 302
School District 300
School District U-46
St. Charles CUSD 303
Metra
Through Feb. 2, 2015, Metra says “your train may experience delays due to temperature-related speed restrictions.”
Officials are asking commuters to allow extra travel time to assure your safe passage to and from your destination.
“We regret any unanticipated weather related delays that you may experience and appreciate your patience.”
Refer to Service Updates for line-specific information.
IDOT
To ensure the safety of the motoring public, IDOT will have more than 1,700 trucks and 3,700 employees statewide ready to fight snow and ice. Motorists should expect travel times that are much longer than usual. Also, don’t crowd the plows. Make sure to give plows plenty of room to work. You might see them, but the plow drivers might not see you.
Illinois State Police are asking motorists to plan accordingly and make safety a priority by driving at a safe speed, allowing plenty of distance from other vehicles to safely maneuver, ensuring vehicle lights are functioning properly, watching for snow removal equipment, and exiting the road to a safe location if driving conditions become too hazardous.
“Public safety is every driver’s responsibility. Motorists should take every precaution, reduce their speeds and avoid unnecessary travel to help keep roads safe,” said state police Col. Mike Zerbonia. “Avoiding distractions and keeping extra distance between vehicles will help when navigating through snow and ice conditions.”
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) encourages travelers to have a vehicle emergency kit that includes water, snack foods, flashlight, blanket, extra warm clothing, sand or kitty litter, shovel, windshield scraper with brush, and booster cables. More winter weather survival tips are available at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.
Additional tips to remember:
- Be aware that black ice can form on roads that appear clear and the unseen ice can be treacherous.
- Take it slow when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas – all are prone to black ice, which is often invisible. Always keep your gas tank at least two-thirds full to help prevent the vehicle’s fuel line from freezing.
- Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary – if you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route and schedule.
- Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first aid kit.
- Carry a cell phone and dial *999 in the Chicago area for roadway assistance in case of emergency. Remember: using handheld phones while driving is illegal in Illinois if it is not an emergency situation.
- Always wear a seat belt, front seat or back – it’s the law.
- Check travel and road conditions routinely before any trip. You can get road conditions by calling 1-800-452-IDOT (4368), Illinois Tollway information by calling 1-800-TOLL-FYI or online atwww.gettingaroundillinois.com and clicking on the “winter road conditions” icon.
