Illinois e-News Release
Media Release
Nov. 10, 2025
Director Theodore Berger
Public Information Officer Haley Williams
Deputy Public Information Officer Melissa Hahn
IEMA-OHS and National Weather Service Recognize Winter Weather Preparedness Week
SPRINGFIELD– As winter weather approaches, Illinois residents are reminded to prepare for the possibility of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. This week marks National Winter Weather Preparedness Week, a timely opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead for the challenges the season can bring.
The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) is partnering with the National Weather Service (NWS) to urge everyone to take simple, proactive steps now to stay safe and reduce the risks posed by severe winter weather.
“Illinois weather can shift at any moment and the best time to prepare for unpredictable weather is before it begins,” said IEMA-OHS Acting Director Theodore “Ted” Berger. “Simple actions such as winterizing your home, preparing an emergency kit, and insulating exposed pipes can make all the difference.”
NWS Meteorologist Ed Shimon added, “Cultivating a Weather Ready Nation is a goal of the NWS. Winter weather impacts can catch us off guard and create potentially fatal consequences. Illinois averages approximately 27 fatalities per year and thousands of injuries due to winter driving accidents. It is imperative for everyone to take seriously their preparations and planning for winter weather. Whether it be snow and ice on the roads, zero visibility in snowstorms or bitterly cold temperatures, being weather aware and ‘Weather Ready’ can save your life.”
Throughout the week, IEMA-OHS and the NWS will highlight key winter weather topics:
- Monday: Snow Impacts – First snow, snow squalls, and types of winter precipitation
- Tuesday: Icy Road Impacts – Black ice, freezing rain, and bridge safety
- Wednesday: Cold Weather Safety – Wind chill, hypothermia, dressing for the cold, and pet safety
- Thursday: Home Safety and Preparedness – Winterizing your home, power outages, and snow removal
- Friday: Winter Headlines – Understanding blizzards and forecast challenges
For more information on winter weather risks and how to prepare in Illinois, visit
Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS):
Ready.Illinois.Gov
Attachments
To unsubscribe or modify your subscription click the following link https://www.illinois.gov/about/communications-management.html?ui=77D5B485-638C-412E-8EC0-17D0707FA9EB. Please do not forward this email to other individuals or they will have access to your e-Subscription account settings.